ISSN: 2641-9459
Authors: Tanveer AK*
Vitamin D is a vitamin found in fewer amounts in most of world population. More than 40% American adults and 65% Pakistani population have deficiency of this vitamin [1]. It is synthesized in skin. Ultraviolet radiations penetrate into the epidermis when a body is exposed to sunlight. Body photolysis pro vitamin D3 to pre vitamin D3 and ultimately to vitamin D3 [2]. Therefore, it is also called as “the sunshine vitamin”. It is an essential component of our optimal health [3]. It also directs cells for absorption of calcium and phosphorus, the major source of strong bones. Low vitamin D3 levels may lead to serious health disorders such as osteoporosis, cancer, depression, muscle weakness etc [4]. In addition, only a handful of foods contain significant amounts of vitamin D3. These include cod liver oil, swordfish, salmon, canned tuna, beef liver, egg yolks and sardines. However, sunlight is an important source of vitamin D3 intake. It is important here to note that ultraviolet rays of sun cannot penetrate through windows. So, people who work in front of sunny windows are unable to get vitamin D3. Vitamin D3 is beneficial even in large amounts because Melanoma (the deadliest skin cancer) is often found on the least exposed areas of body to sun. Similarly, occupational skin exposure is associated with reduced risk of Melanoma [5].
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