Vitamin D is fat-soluble, meaning it requires dietary fat for absorption. Taking it with a meal containing healthy fats (like avocados, nuts, or olive oil) enhances its effectiveness. Since Vitamin D influences sleep hormones, taking it at night may interfere with sleep.
Vitamin D, often called the “sunshine vitamin,” is essential for bone health, immune function, and overall well-being. But could a lack of vitamin D increase the risk of cancer? Research suggests that low levels of vitamin D might be linked to certain types of cancer. In India alone almost 70 to 100 per cent of people are vitamin D deficient, according to a study. However, while some studies indicate a connection, others do not find a direct cause-and-effect relationship. Let’s take a closer look at how vitamin D affects cancer risk and what science says about it.
What is the role of vitamin D in our body?
Vitamin D plays a crucial role in maintaining healthy cells. It helps regulate cell growth, supports immune function, and reduces inflammation—three key factors in cancer prevention. Studies have shown that vitamin D can:
- Promote normal cell function and prevent abnormal cell growth.
- Help cells repair damage and avoid mutations that may lead to cancer.
- Support the immune system in identifying and destroying harmful cells.
Without enough vitamin D, these protective functions may weaken, increasing the likelihood of uncontrolled cell growth, which is a hallmark of cancer.
There is no strong evidence proving that using sunscreen regularly leads to vitamin D deficiency. Many experts, including those from the American Academy of Dermatology, state that most people get enough sunlight exposure for vitamin D even if they use sunscreen. This is because:
What research says about vitamin D and cancer risk
Several studies have explored the link between vitamin D deficiency and cancer. Here’s what they found:
- Colorectal cancer: Research suggests that people with higher vitamin D levels may have a lower risk of developing colorectal cancer.
- Breast and lung cancer: Some studies indicate no strong link between vitamin D levels and breast or lung cancer risk.
- Prostate and pancreatic cancer: Interestingly, some research suggests that very high vitamin D levels might actually be linked to a higher risk of these cancers.
- Cancer mortality: A meta-analysis of multiple studies found that people with lower vitamin D levels had a higher risk of dying from cancer.
Low levels of Vitamin D have been linked to dry eye syndrome and inflammation in the eyes. This vitamin also plays a role in reducing the risk of macular degeneration.
While these studies highlight a potential connection, scientists emphasize that vitamin D deficiency alone does not directly cause cancer. Instead, it may increase vulnerability to the disease, especially when combined with other risk factors like poor diet, smoking, and lack of exercise.
How to maintain healthy vitamin D levels
Since vitamin D deficiency may contribute to a higher cancer risk, it’s essential to ensure adequate intake. Here’s how:
- Sunlight exposure: Spending 10–30 minutes in the sun a few times a week can boost vitamin D levels naturally.
- Diet: Foods like fatty fish, eggs, fortified dairy products, and mushrooms contain vitamin D.
- Supplements: If getting enough vitamin D from sunlight and food is difficult, supplements can help, but it’s best to consult a doctor for the right dosage.
The most common signs of vitamin D deficiency are hair loss, muscle weakness, frequent sickness, fatigue, and even depression.
Cancer prevention involves multiple factors, including a healthy lifestyle, regular screenings, and avoiding known cancer risks like smoking and processed foods. If concerned about vitamin D levels, it’s always best to consult a healthcare provider for personalized advice.
