Vitamin D: Benefits, Sources & Deficiency

Vitamin D acts more like a hormone than a vitamin, supporting bones, muscles, immunity and mood. Despite abundant sunshine, deficiency is extremely common in India because indoor lifestyles and clothing limit sun exposure. Fatigue, bone and back pain, frequent infections and low mood are typical signs. Fifteen to thirty minutes of midday sun on bare arms a few times a week, plus dietary sources like fortified milk, eggs and fish, cover most people. If a blood test confirms deficiency, doctors prescribe weekly supplements — self-medicating with high doses for months can be harmful, so test first and treat to target.