Preface

Welcome to the world of Vitamin D, a fascinating nutrient with profound effects on human health. This book is a comprehensive guide to understanding the various aspects of Vitamin D, from its discovery and historical significance to its role in modern medicine and ongoing research.

Vitamin D is often referred to as the "sunshine vitamin" due to its unique synthesis in the skin upon exposure to sunlight. However, its importance goes far beyond its role in calcium metabolism and bone health. Vitamin D receptors are found in nearly every tissue and cell in the body, indicating its involvement in a wide range of physiological processes. In recent years, research on Vitamin D has expanded rapidly, uncovering its potential roles in immune function, cardiovascular health, cancer prevention, and mental well-being. The emerging evidence suggests that Vitamin D deficiency may be linked to a variety of chronic diseases, making it a subject of intense interest among scientists, healthcare professionals, and the general public.

This book is divided into several chapters, each focusing on a different aspect of Vitamin D. The first chapter provides an introduction to the history of Vitamin D, tracing its discovery and early research to the present day. The second chapter delves into the immunoregulation of Vitamin D, explaining how it is synthesized, metabolized, and immune-regulated in the body.

The third chapter explores the role of Vitamin D in ocular health. The fourth chapter discusses Vitamin D deficiency and its protective role as sunscreen against cancer-causing ultraviolet rays of sunlight and how to increase Vitamin D levels through diet, supplements, and sunlight exposure.

The fifth chapter examines the latest research on the Endocrinology of Vitamin D and its potential therapeutic applications, from preventing chronic diseases to improving overall health and well-being. The sixth chapter describes malaria known to mankind, Cerebral Malaria (CM), caused by Plasmodium falciparum, which kills ~400,000 people annually, the majority of whom are children. The seventh chapter describes the factors influencing cerebral malaria. Chapter 8 explores the role of Vitamin D against thrombosis and stroke. Finally, chapter 9 concludes with a discussion of future directions in Vitamin D research and its potential impact on public health.

Whether you are a healthcare professional seeking to deepen your understanding of Vitamin D or a curious reader interested in the latest developments in nutrition and health, this book offers a comprehensive and accessible guide to the fascinating world of Vitamin D.

We hope that you find this book informative and engaging and that it inspires you to explore the many facets of Vitamin D and its impact on human health.

Happy readings