Vitamin D, scientifically known as calciferol, is essential for bone health, muscle strength, and a well-functioning immune system. Paradoxically, despite living in a sun rich country, India faces a widespread deficiency of this vital nutrient. National surveys, including the Comprehensive National Nutrition Survey (CNNS) conducted by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW), UNICEF, and the Population Council from 2016 to 2018, indicate that a significant portion of the population, especially children, adolescents, and urban residents, have insufficient vitamin D levels. Government data suggests that as many as 80 % of Indians may not be getting adequate vitamin D, highlighting a growing public health concern.
Health Risks of Low Vitamin D
The health consequences of vitamin D deficiency are significant. In children, it can lead to rickets, causing weak and deformed bones. Adults may develop osteomalacia or osteoporosis, resulting in fragile bones and a higher risk of fractures. Low vitamin D levels can also cause muscle weakness, fatigue, and reduced immunity. Some studies indicate that deficiency may increase the risk of chronic diseases, including diabetes and heart conditions.
Why Vitamin D Deficiency is Widespread in India
Experts attribute this deficiency to a combination of lifestyle, dietary, and environmental factors. Many people in urban areas spend most of their time indoors in offices, schools, and homes, limiting exposure to sunlight, the primary source of vitamin D. Air pollution and dense high rise buildings further reduce ultraviolet B rays reaching the skin. Ultraviolet B (UVB) rays, with wavelengths between 290 and 320 nanometers, are crucial for the synthesis of vitamin D in the skin. National Institute of Health says Traditional Indian diets, particularly vegetarian ones, contain very little vitamin D, and most staple foods such as milk, cereals, and edible oils are not routinely fortified. Additional factors, such as darker skin tones requiring more sunlight for vitamin D production and low calcium intake, further worsen the problem.
Ways to Prevent Vitamin D Deficiency
Preventing and controlling vitamin D deficiency requires a multifaceted approach. Regular exposure to sunlight remains the most natural and cost-effective solution. MoHFW recommends regular, moderate sunlight exposure to facilitate natural vitamin D synthesis. Spending 10–30 minutes in the morning sun on exposed skin several times a week is advised. This practice is particularly beneficial for individuals with limited dietary intake of vitamin D.
Dietary Interventions
CNNS 2016–2018,highlights the importance of dietary sources in combating vitamin D deficiency. It recommends the inclusion of fortified foods such as milk, curd, plant-based milks, breakfast cereals, and edible oils in daily diets. Additionally, incorporating natural sources like fatty fish, egg yolks, and sun-exposed mushrooms can help improve vitamin D levels.
The MoHFW advises vitamin D supplementation for individuals at higher risk of deficiency such as children, pregnant women, the elderly, and those with limited sun exposure.
The Indian Council for Research on International Economic Relations (ICRIER) has proposed a comprehensive roadmap to address vitamin D deficiency. This includes mandatory fortification of staple foods, public awareness campaigns, and regular monitoring to ensure effective implementation and reach.