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 acts as a natural sunscreen and protects the skin from harmful UV rays, but it also reduces the skin's ability to produce vitamin D in response to sunlight. In environments with high sun exposure, this adaptation helps to prevent vitamin D toxicity, which can cause calcium imbalance and other health problems. However, in areas with limited sunlight, people with high levels of melanin may be at increased risk of vitamin D deficiency, which can lead to bone disorders, immune dysfunction, and other health issues.

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