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Vitamin D deficiency has placed many Americans, particularly African
Americans, in the higher risk bracket for developing bone problems
and several other kinds of diseases.
Evidence of this increasing problem could be seen in the number
of cases popping up of children afflicted with rickets, a vitamin-D-related
bone disorder once thought to be a condition of the past. Also,
doctors have been experiencing a number of adults who suffered with
serious muscle pain and atrophy until they were treated for vitamin
D deficiency.
Studies have also suggested that vitamin D deficiency might heavily
impact the elderly by making them prone to developing bone-thinning
diseases such as osteoporosis and other bone-related problems including
fractures.
Some of the other health problems associated with vitamin D deficiency
include certain types of cancer, high blood pressure, depression
and immune system disorders. Because of these concerns, many scientists
have requested official vitamin D recommendations.
Experts who advise more sun exposure as a way to get vitamin D
have stirred up many emotions among skin cancer experts who expressed
concerns over people ignoring the warnings on protecting their skin
while spending time in the sun.
Vitamin D Facts
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Skin has the natural ability to produce vitamin D when struck
by ultraviolet rays in sunlight.
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The amount of vitamin D a person needs depends on factors such
as where they live, their skin pigment, age and other factors.
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African Americans and other dark-skinned people and those living
in northern latitudes make significantly less vitamin D than
other groups.
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Very few people get their vitamin D requirements through their
diet.
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Studies showed very low levels of vitamin D among children,
the elderly and women.
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One nationwide study of women revealed that almost half of
the African American women of childbearing age might be vitamin
D deficient.
Washington
Post May 21, 2004
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