UK (Commonwealth Union) – The lack of vitamin D has been linked to numerous diseases in humans. The sun and nutrition are the primary sources of vitamin D for humans and a lack of vitamin D has been indicated across the world for many people. Over the years, concerns have been by raised by environmental scientists for the nutrition requirements of animals who are out of their natural habitat and residing in zoos and other human inhabited areas as to if they are getting the correct nutritional requirements.
A new study has demonstrated a large number of chimpanzees located in Europe suffer from insufficient vitamin D levels, and the extensive problem may bring about a serious impact on their health. The authors stated the research can enhance care and nutrition practices for these endangered animals.
Vitamin D deficiency is referred to as a pandemic by some, believed to impact up to 1 billion individuals globally. Vitamin D is known for its significant ability to maintain calcium levels in the body, a key to the functioning of bones and muscles. However, vitamin D has a larger range of biological functions and long vitamin D deficiency is linked to a variety of disorders in humans that include heart diseases, cancers, autoimmune diseases, and respiratory infections.
There is little knowledge on vitamin D for non-human primates. A global team of experts, from the Universities of Nottingham, Birmingham, St George’s, Hong Kong and zoo veterinarians from Twycross and Perth zoos, formed a Europe-wide research project to bridge this gap in the animal closest to us.
Sophie Moittié, who initially led the research at Twycross Zoo and currently an assistant professor for the University of St George’s, said: “There is clear correlation between vitamin D status and several diseases in humans. We share 99% of our DNA with chimpanzees, therefore we need to assume that they might be at risk as well. It is our responsibility to ensure they get the best care possible, so we can preserve them into the future.”
