Biology/Vitamin D levels correlation with level of hairiness?
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Question
Hey, I was wondering whether or not people who are hairy are at a distinct disadvantage when it comes to getting enough sun exposure to produce adequate levels of vitamin D? Wouldn't hair obstruct the UV light rays from contacting the skin thus resulting in a relative decrease in vitamin D levels?
Thanks for your time.
Dear Leto,
Body hair is not likely to block very much sunlight, and I very much doubt there is a significant difference in Vitamin D manufacture between hairy and less hairy individuals. The difference would certainly not be enough to cause problems for hairier individuals.
Dana
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Answers by Expert:
Dana Krempels, Ph.D.
Expertise
I can answer biology-related questions in the areas of evolution, zoology, botany, genetics, and ecology. But I don't answer homework questions or provide ideas for your science fair projects. So students please do your learning the right way by reading your text assignments and studying!
Experience
At the University of Miami, I teach Evolution and Biodiversity, Botany, Zoology, Genetics, Ecology, and a variety of seminars (e.g., the Biology and Evolution of Human Gender Roles).
Education/Credentials
I have a B.S. in Biology and an A.B. in English from the University of Southern California (1980).
I earned my Ph.D. in Biology in the area of evolutionary biology/visual physiology from the University of Miami in 1989.
Past/Present Clients
I am currently an "expert" in both the "Rabbits" and "Wild Animals" categories.
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