![]() ,, , The well-known phenomenon of seasonal depression may be due in part to lower vitamin D levels in winter, especially in Northern climates. Vitamin D’s reputation as the sunshine vitamin is well deserved for another reason: vitamin D influences mood. ,, , Compelling evidence suggests that vitamin D insufficiency also plays a role in mood disturbances and autoimmune diseases, as discussed below. Vitamin D insufficiency is also associated with diabetes, heart disease, respiratory infections, and some cancers. Insufficient vitamin D causes a decrease in bone mineral density as we age, which increases the risk of osteoporosis, falling, and bone fractures in the elderly. Some foods (milk, various brands of cereal, yogurt, and orange juice) are fortified with vitamin D, but the levels are not enough to prevent deficiency. ĭiet is considered a relatively unreliable source of vitamin D because vitamin D is found naturally in only a few foods, namely dairy products, eggs, fish, and cod liver oil. Unfortunately, the use of sunscreen also inhibits vitamin D synthesis. ,, , Public health organizations recommend the use of sunscreen, because prolonged sun exposure damages the skin and increases the risk for skin cancer. summer), time of day, cloud cover, air pollution (which filters out UVB), skin melanin content (which absorbs UVB), age, and sunscreen use (which blocks UVB). ![]() ![]() ![]() Many variables affect sun exposure and therefore influence vitamin D levels in the body: the latitude at which one resides, the season (winter vs. ,, In the absence of sun exposure, however, it is necessary to obtain vitamin D solely from the diet and supplementation. Vitamin D is essential for strong bones, immunity, and many other bodily functions. Vitamin D is known as the “sunshine vitamin” because it is generated within the skin upon exposure to ultraviolet B (UVB) rays, the rays responsible for suntans. The role of vitamin D in autoimmunity and mood ![]()
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