Vitamin D Deficiency in Dubai: Dosage, Sunlight Intake
According to various news outlets, Vitamin D Deficiency is rife in Dubai, and if you’re having rheumatology treatment it’s even more important to monitor how much you receive. Vitamin D comes from sunlight, the foods you eat and your overall lifestyle. Finding out how to get more of this vital vitamin in your life is a step towards becoming healthier.
The Statistics
Frighteningly, over 90% of the UAE population is apparently lacking in enough Vitamin D to be classed as healthy. This came as part of a double year, Vitamin D study aimed at the area and the results have been dramatic.
What You Can Do About It
Residents of the UAE are being advised to soak up as much sunshine as is necessary on a daily basis. This means on average about 30 minutes, in the sun per day. For those with lighter skin that burns more easily, 15 minutes should suffice.
In addition, not wearing sunscreen and ensuring up to 40% of your skin is exposed to the sunlight will increase the amount of Vitamin D your skin can absorb. Try and get outside during the middle of the day – it’s advisable to do so between 10 am and 3 pm as this is peak time for vitamin intake.
What Are The Risks?
Vitamin D deficiency has been linked to mood disorders, chronic diseases and autoimmune diseases over the years, and it’s not just you who can be affected. Newborns whose mothers don’t get enough Vitamin D are more susceptible to developing both types of Diabetes and indeed Schizophrenia, Asthma, and Developmental Disorders.
In fact, children who lack Vitamin D intake in the first decade of their lives are more prone to developing Multiple Sclerosis in later life.
Lifestyle Changes
As a result of the study, the food industry has been asked to fortify some food products in order to provide more Vitamin D to the population. Residents are being advised to eat at least 12 almonds a day, and the DHA is holding a 22-week food Education Programme in schools. As a rule, 600-1000 units of Vitamin D a day are recommended for children up to their teenage years.
For adults, simple lifestyle changes such as getting more sunlight, eating more foods containing Vitamin D and consuming supplements or having injections is recommended.
Overall, Vitamin D Deficiency in Dubai doesn’t have to last forever and with a few simple changes throughout your daily life, through the food industry and how we educate our children could be all it takes to get back on track.
Who Do I Talk To?
Our community is filled with people in your situation. Through our comments section, you can tell your story, advice, and tips on managing whatever condition you or your loved ones are going through. Speak to us and our readers and let’s open communication on these common conditions.
To see our Rheumatology Consultants with a special interest in Vitamin D Deficiency, click here
If you’re unsure who to see, please contact the Dr. Humeira Badsha Medical Center via Email or call +971 4 385 6009.
For more useful information on Dr. Humeira Badsha Medical Center, Rheumatology and Orthopedic Center in Dubai visit: https://www.drbadshamedical.com/
For more useful information about Vitamin D Deficiency, please visit our website: https://www.drbadshamedical.com/treatments/vitamin-d/
