The potential impact of vitamin D deficiency on high-risk Covid-19 patients has been highlighted in recent research. Certain categories of people, including diabetics, individuals with heart conditions, pneumonia and obesity, and smokers have been found to be particularly vulnerable. Furthermore, vitamin D deficiency has been linked to respiratory tract infections and lung injury. Despite abundant sunshine, which is conducive to Vitamin D production, a significant number of the Indian populace suffers from Vitamin D deficiency, irrespective of geographic location, age, gender, or economic status.
Vitamin D Deficiency: A Pan-Indian Issue
The prevalence of vitamin D deficiency among the Indian population is shockingly high. Findings published in the Indian Journal of Endocrinology and Metabolism in 2017 revealed that vitamin D levels in people across various Indian states ranged from 3.15 nanogram/millilitre to 52.9 ng/ml. This figure falls short of the necessary level of 30-100 ng/ml. Females were shown to have consistently lower levels than males. This deficiency was also observed in people of Indian sub-continental origin residing in Great Britain, hinting at a possible genetic link to Vitamin D metabolism.
The Calcium Connection: Levels Drop Despite Milk Production
Vitamin D plays a crucial role in the body’s absorption of calcium, a mineral essential for maintaining strong bones, enabling muscle movement and facilitating nerve communication. However, data from the National Nutrition Monitoring Bureau (NNMB) over the last fifty years shows a drop in calcium levels among average Indian populations from 700 units per day to 300-400 units—despite India being the world’s leading milk producer.
Understanding Vitamin D: Sources and Functions
Vitamin D, a fat-soluble substance, is present naturally in very few foods such as fatty fish, beef liver, cheese, and egg yolks. It is synthesized when ultraviolet rays from sunlight strike the skin, triggering a chemical reaction that converts cholesterol-based molecules into calcidiol and calcitriol. Vitamin D carries out vital functions in the body, including maintaining adequate calcium and phosphate concentrations, promoting cell growth, supporting neuromuscular and immune function, and reducing inflammation.
The Impact of Vitamin D Deficiency
Insufficient Vitamin D levels can result in numerous health issues. In children, it can lead to rickets, while in adults it could cause osteomalacia (softening of bones). Both conditions result in thin, brittle, or misshapen bones.
Nutrition in India: Hidden Hunger and Malnutrition
Despite being one of the world’s leading food producers, India grapples with widespread hidden hunger and malnutrition, both in urban and rural areas. Over 80% of adolescents in India reportedly suffer from hidden hunger, according to a UNICEF report, with a significant number of children below 5 years found to be anaemic.
Government Initiatives Towards Nutrition Security
The Indian government has launched numerous schemes to address nutritional deficiencies. Programmes like the Mid-day meal scheme, Integrated Child Development Services, and POSHAN Abhiyaan have played critical roles in combating malnutrition. In addition, biofortification—improving the nutritional quality of crops – is being actively promoted to ensure dietary diversity and nutrient adequacy
Suggestions for Enhancing Nutritional Intake
Experts recommend enhancing the nutrient content of meals provided to underprivileged populations. The inclusion of vegetables, fruits, and food sources rich in micronutrients could help alleviate ‘hidden hunger’ and strengthen immunity against infections. Encouraging physical exercise, sun exposure, and awareness about healthy eating are other effective strategies. The government should also consider providing supplements like Vitamin D and calcium, free of charge, in consultation with medical experts.
Moving Forward: The Important Role of Nutrition
Addressing Vitamin D and calcium deficiency is a vital step towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals of ending hunger and ensuring good health and well-being for all. This is particularly crucial in the face of the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic.
