Part 10/14:

Additionally, many physicians prescribe vitamin D supplements without discussing the importance of natural sunlight. This commercial and medical reliance on supplements is partly driven by industry marketing and the ease of "prescribing" a pill over lifestyle changes.

The Role of Melanin and Evolutionary Adaptation

Melanin's primary role is to protect against UV damage, especially to sensitive molecules like folate—a vital vitamin for DNA synthesis. Increased melanin reduces vitamin D synthesis but offers protection against UV-induced damage.

• Diverse skin pigmentation: Human skin has adapted over millennia to balance vitamin D production with UV protection based on geographic location.