Vitamin D
Vitamin D, vital for bone health and immune function, is synthesized in the skin through sunlight exposure and found in foods like fatty fish and fortified dairy products.
Impact of Gene Variants
Genetic factors play a role in determining an individual‘s susceptibility to vitamin D deficiency and their ability to metabolize and utilize vitamin D. Variations in genes like VDR and CYP2R1 can affect vitamin D receptor function and synthesis, potentially influencing bone health and immune function.
Ways to Recognize Problems
Symptoms of vitamin D deficiency may include fatigue, muscle weakness, bone pain, and an increased risk of fractures. Blood tests measuring serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels help diagnose deficiency, while assessing dietary intake and sun exposure habits also aids in identification.
Ways to Improve
Increasing sun exposure, particularly during peak sunlight hours, can help boost vitamin D synthesis in the skin. Additionally, consuming vitamin D-rich foods like fatty fish, fortified dairy products, and eggs, or taking vitamin D supplements, can help maintain adequate levels, especially for individuals with limited sun exposure or those at higher risk of deficiency.
Did you know
Vitamin D deficiency affects almost 50% of the population worldwide.
