Higher amounts of melanin in the skin inhibit the body's ability to manufacture vitamin D. This confers an adaptive advantage in environments with excessive sun exposure.

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Melanin protects the skin from excessive sun exposure by absorbing harmful UV rays, but also limits the skin's ability to produce vitamin D in response to sunlight. In areas with high levels of sun exposure, this can be advantageous as it helps prevent skin damage and potential skin cancer. However, in areas with limited sun exposure, decreased vitamin D synthesis due to melanin can lead to deficiency and related health issues.

Higher Amounts of Melanin in the Skin Inhibit the Body's