Sendurai Mani: The Essential Role of Sunshine Vitamin in Health and Its Widespread Global Deficiency
Sendurai Mani, Dean’s Chair for Translational Oncology at Brown University Warren Alpert Medical School, shared a post on LinkedIn:
“The Essential Role of Vitamin D, known as the Sunshine Vitamin, in Health and Its Widespread Global Deficiency.
Vitamin D, often referred to as the “sunshine vitamin,” plays a crucial role in several bodily functions, including maintaining bone health, boosting the immune response, supporting muscle function, and promoting cardiovascular well-being. The body produces it when exposed to sunlight, but it can also be obtained from foods such as fatty fish and fortified dairy products or through supplements.
Vitamin D facilitates calcium absorption in the gut, which is crucial for bone mineralization and helps prevent several disorders, including osteoporosis. Additionally, it may lower the risk of respiratory infections and certain chronic diseases, including type 2 diabetes and certain types of cancer.
Despite its importance, vitamin D deficiency is a common issue worldwide, primarily because many people spend their time indoors. A lack of vitamin D can lead to numerous health problems, ranging from bone disorders to an increased risk of chronic diseases. Therefore, maintaining optimal levels through a balanced diet, adequate sun exposure, and supplements as necessary is crucial for overall health.
If you’re unsure about your vitamin D levels, a simple blood test and consultation with a healthcare provider can help assess and manage this vital nutrient’s levels. Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin; therefore, when taking this supplement, consider using an oil-based formulation.
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