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Sahelis, being cooped up all day could have a bigger impact than you may know. Recent research shows that South Asian women (especially those with darker skin) may be deficient in or have lower levels of Vitamin D, commonly known as ‘the Sun Vitamin.’ The primary way to obtain this vitamin is by sunlight exposure, but a few dietary sources are also available.
Vitamin D is a steroid with hormone-like activity and is also one of the four main fat-soluble vitamins. It regulates the functions of over 200 genes and is essential for growth and development of the body.
Vitamin D is especially important for pregnant women. According to Science Daily, seven out of every ten pregnant women in the United States are not getting enough Vitamin D. Though supplementation poses as a solution, prenatal vitamins do not provide enough vitamin D, and at times higher doses are needed to raise levels.
Vitamin D deficiency amongst newborns and infants has especially been linked to an increased risk of respiratory infections, asthma, neurodevelopment disorders, and weaker bone structure. For adults, deficient levels have been linked to heart disease, diabetes, hypertension and certain types of cancer.
CitySaheli asked Health Guru, Anita Mirchandani, how to ensure our Sahelis get enough Vitamin D. Here is what she shared with CitySaheli:
• Be cognizant about your annual physical and blood work
• As little as ten minutes daily of sun exposure could help achieve your recommended daily allowance (RDA)
• Dietary sources include fatty fish such as salmon, tuna or sardines, eggs with yolk, mushrooms, vitamin D fortified milk, orange juice fortified with vitamin D, 6 oz yogurt fortified with vitamin D, 1 ounce Swiss cheese * always check labels for exact daily value amounts
• Try a multivitamin (includes vitamin D) especially if you are trying to conceive, are pregnant, live in colder climates (up north especially), or work indoors most of the day
• Recommended amount of Vitamin D includes 5 micrograms (200 IU) for all individuals under the age of 50 including pregnant and lactating women
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