Part 5/14:

The skin plays a crucial role in vitamin D synthesis. UVB rays convert 7-dehydrocholesterol—present in the skin—to pre-vitamin D3, which then transforms into active vitamin D3. Importantly, the process is highly regulated:

• Protection Mechanisms: Melanin, the pigment responsible for skin color, protects against UV damage by neutralizing free radicals and absorbing UV rays. Darker skin requires more UVB exposure to produce equivalent vitamin D levels as lighter skin because melanin acts as a natural barrier.

• Storage and Conversion: Vitamin D3 is fat-soluble; it can be stored in fat tissues for later use and converted into different forms within the body depending on needs.