Do office workers face a higher risk of vitamin D?

(Healthy foods containing vitamin D) Image credit: iStock

Points to be discussed

• What is Vitamin D?

• Types of Vitamin D

• What does Vitamin D do?

• Which foods contain Vitamin D?

• Do office workers face a higher risk of Vitamin D?

Image credit: iStock

What is Vitamin D?

Vitamin D, a fat-soluble vitamin, is essential for various bodily functions like bone and teeth health, immune system support, and mood regulation. It earns its nickname, the "sunshine vitamin," because the body synthesises it when exposed to sunlight. Apart from sunlight, it can also be sourced from specific foods and supplements.

Types of Vitamin D

There are two types of vitamin D, namely D2 and D3.

Vitamin D3, also known as calciferol, plays a crucial role in the absorption of phosphorous and calcium in the body. It is essential for bone health and functions as a hormone, necessitating ample amounts within the body. Inadequate exposure to sunlight can lead to a deficiency in vitamin D3, as its synthesis occurs in the skin with sun exposure. However, this synthesis diminishes with age.

Both vitamin D3 and D2 are produced commercially and included in dietary supplements or added to foods such as bread, eggs, soy milk, and yoghurt.

What does Vitamin D do?

Vitamin D is ingested either from foods or directly from sunlight.

The ones that are obtained through foods and supplements are absorbed by the intestine and carried to the liver via the bloodstream.

The ones that are obtained directly from sunlight are absorbed into the skin.

Both methods help in getting calcium absorption from the intestine and rebuilding bone tissue.

Which foods contain Vitamin D?

Cod liver oil, Salmon Swordfish, Tuna fish, orange juice, Dairy and plant mills, egg yolk, fortified cereals.

Do office workers face a higher risk of Vitamin D?

1. Reduced Sunlight Exposure: Office workers typically spend the majority of their time indoors, which limits their exposure to natural sunlight.

2. Sunlight and Vitamin D Synthesis: Sunlight is essential for the body to produce vitamin D. However, being indoors for extended periods reduces the opportunity for adequate sunlight exposure necessary for this process.

3. Increased Risk of Deficiency: Limited sunlight exposure can lead to a deficiency in vitamin D since the body relies on sunlight to produce it.

4. Vitamin D's Vital Functions: Vitamin D is crucial for maintaining strong bones, supporting the immune system, and regulating mood. Without enough vitamin D, individuals may face various health issues.

5. Need for Supplementation: Due to reduced sunlight exposure, office workers may need to consider dietary sources or vitamin D supplements to ensure they meet their daily requirements.

In summary, the combination of spending prolonged periods indoors and the essential role of vitamin D in health puts office workers at a heightened risk of vitamin D deficiency.