Have you ever wondered why India gets abundant sunlight, yet most of us have a vitamin D deficiency, which is strange. Study shows that around 70-90% Indian has low vitamin D levels.
Why do we need vitamin D?
Vitamin D helps in
- Calcium absorption
- Strengthen bone
- Mood enhancer
- Support immunity
Why, with so much sun light we still have Vitamin D deficiency?
1. Indoor living: Our ancestors used to wake up early, go for a walk still in the sun, and enjoy the day. Now we have shifted to indoor indirect sunlight inside the office, classroom, and gym.
2. Sunscreens: Most of us apply sunscreen every day before stepping out of the house. It is used for skin protection, but it also blocks around 90% of UVB absorption.
3. Clothing: Just like sunscreen, we wear long-sleeved clothes, cover ourselves before stepping out of the house to prevent tanning, but it also restricts the sun exposure and absorption of UVB
4. Air pollution: the sun in most of our cities is covered under a thick layer of air pollution, due to which sun rays are unable to reach the ground.
5. Skin tone: Indians have higher melanin, the pigment that gives us the unique dark color. It helps in filtering the UV rays, thus we need 3-5 times more exposure to the sun as compared to lighter skin to produce the same amount of Vitamin D.
How much sunlight do we need?
Around 15-20 mins of direct sunlight around arm, leg and back at least 3 times per week can be helpful. Early morning and evening light usually does not contain enough UVB.
Vitamin D source:
- Nuts
- Seeds
- Fish
- Ghee
- Eggs
- Fortified milk
- UV-exposed Mushrooms
Vitamin D deficiency in India is a striking example of how modern an override natural advantages. Despite living in a country blessed with abundant sunlight, factors like indoor living, pollution, skin protection habits, and higher melanin levels limit our body’s ability to produce this essential vitamin. Recognizing this hidden deficiency is the first step toward improving bone health, immunity, and overall well-being.
Have you ever wondered why Vitamin D is always low in Indians?
MBH/AB