Despite abundant sunshine, over 70% of urban Indians have low Vitamin D levels. Symptoms include fatigue, bone pain, hair fall and recurrent infections.

Causes: sedentary indoor lifestyles, sunscreen use, darker skin tones, vegetarian diets (Vitamin D is mostly found in animal products).

Test: 25-OH Vitamin D (Levels below 30 ng/mL are considered deficient). Treatment is straightforward — weekly high-dose supplementation for 8-12 weeks under medical supervision, followed by maintenance dosing.

Lifestyle tips: 15-20 minutes of direct sun exposure (arms + face) 4 days a week, consume fortified milk, egg yolks and fatty fish.