Eyes and the Sunshine Vitamin — AHA! Discovery for April of 2021

February 16, 2021: Classically, Vitamin D is known for supporting strong bones and muscles. The role of Vitamin D has expanded to include critical immune support according to multiple recent studies during the COVID pandemic. The Vitamin D receptor is expressed on T-cells, B-cells and other immunologic cells which is capable of synthesizing Vitamin D. Deficiencies in Vitamin D can increase susceptibility to infection, autoimmunity complications, diabetes, and even heart failure.

Cholesterol (7-dehydrocholesterol) in both eyes and skin can synthesize Vitamin D with exposure to Ultra Violet – B (UV-B) light from the sun. Scientists have found Vitamin D metabolites in the aqueous and vitreous humor and in tear fluid in the eyes of rabbits. They also discovered that free-ranging rabbits had more Vitamin D metabolites compared with that of indoor caged rabbits. Rabbit eyes and furless areas inside their pointy ears are likely the primary areas for Vitamin D synthesis in rabbits.

During the summertime when there are longer periods of UV-B rays from the sun, our exposed skin also absorbs Vitamin D that can be stored in fat cells. Of course, we are discussing moderate exposure to the sun including a balanced use of UV blocking devices (e.g., sunglasses and sun protective lotions). The UV-B rays are less intense in the northern latitudes during the winter plus we wear more clothes to reduce skin exposure to the chilly weather. If you can not take a “sun bath” for a few minutes each day, a daily supplement of Vitamin D is recommended.

All of the 2021 Pow-Ahh Immunity Series can be found here.

Sharing AHA! Discoveries

Do you have a “AHA!” Discovery to share for a longer and healthier life? Or, do you have a discovery story to share on a different topic?

Email inquiries@aquanew.com. This can be any idea or endeavor that may help others in their own revelation or better quality of life. Alternatively, want to nominate someone with special skills of creativity and innovation? Let us know!

Pow-Ahh Your Immunity – Drink Watt-Ahh!