VIDEO Sunlight Robbery - the failure of UK policy on Vitamin D. Oliver Gillie PhD

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Sunlight Robbery - the failure of UK policy on Vitamin D. Oliver Gillie PhD Dr. Oliver Gillie's presentation titled "Sunlight Robbery" outlines significant failures in UK public health policy regarding Vitamin D, emphasizing the health risks associated with widespread Vitamin D deficiency. With the image of Vitamin D in contemporary healthcare firmly in his sights, Gillie argues for urgent corrective measures.

Key Points from Dr. Gillie's Discussion​

1. Vitamin D Deficiency Overview: Dr. Gillie highlights that the UK's government policy on Vitamin D is ineffective. Most UK residents receive insufficient sunlight to produce adequate Vitamin D, particularly in a climate characterized by long, cloudy conditions. The presentation draws attention to the alarming statistic that 92% of Scots and 86% of people in England fail to maintain adequate levels during winter.
2. Cultural and Environmental Barriers: Many people in the UK work indoors during peak sun hours and are advised to avoid sun exposure due to the risk of skin cancer. The use of sunblocks, even among those who sunbathe, further inhibits Vitamin D production. Specific cultural changes, such as the preference for long clothing and greater use of indoor heating, have also contributed to the decline in Vitamin D synthesis among the population.
3. Health Implications: Gillie connects the dots between Vitamin D deficiency and increased incidences of chronic diseases such as multiple sclerosis, diabetes, and cardiovascular issues. He notes that Vitamin D insufficiency could be a major risk factor linked to the 'Scottish Effect', referring to the notably lower life expectancy and higher mortality rates in Scotland compared to England.
4. Policy Failures:
   • Current Advice and Supplements: The government currently does not recommend Vitamin D supplementation for healthy adults, ignoring rising deficiency levels.
   • Breastfeeding Guidelines: The UK is unique in its recommendation against Vitamin D supplementation for breastfed infants until they are six months old, a stance not supported by scientific evidence.
   • Food Fortification: With minimal fortification of common foods with Vitamin D, Gillie argues for a reassessment of food policy to include Vitamin D in milk and other staples to combat the deficiency effectively.
5. Shifting Perceptions: Dr. Gillie calls for a change in attitudes towards sun exposure, advocating for balanced sunbathing practices rather than extreme sun avoidance messages that have dominated public health narratives. He critiques the negatively skewed advice from cancer charities which often overlook the benefits of sun exposure, leading to further health risks due to Vitamin D deficiency.

   Conclusion​

   Dr. Gillie's lecture stresses the critical and urgent need for a reevaluation of national health policies concerning Vitamin D in the UK, framing it as a matter of public health importance that requires immediate action. He insists that acknowledging and addressing Vitamin D insufficiency could prevent chronic diseases and significantly reduce healthcare costs, urging governments to prioritize this neglected public health issue.​

   If you have thoughts on this topic or any personal experiences regarding Vitamin D awareness and policies in the UK, feel free to share! Have you noticed changes in recommendations or societal attitudes over the years? What do you think should be our approach moving forward?