WHAT IS VITAMIN D?
Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin that is naturally present in few food sources and produced by the body when the skin gets exposed to ultraviolet rays and triggers vitamin D synthesis. This is why it is also often called the “sunshine vitamin”. Getting enough Vitamin D is essential for our health as scientific studies indicate it plays an important role in facilitating normal immune system function, and in the maintenance of healthy bones and teeth as it aids in normal absorption and utilisation of calcium and phosphorus. Some dietary sources of Vitamin D are tuna, salmon, sardines, egg yolks, mushrooms, soy and milk.
As recommended by the Department of Health and Public Health England, since it can be difficult to meet the required daily allowance from sunlight and food alone, taking supplements especially during autumn and winter months can help maintain satisfactory Vitamin D levels throughout the year. Without sufficient Vitamin D, bones can become brittle and less dense which may lead to rickets (weak bones) in children, osteomalacia (soft bones) in adults; and together with lack of calcium, it could lead to osteoporosis (fragile bones) in older adults.
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF TAKING VITAMIN D?
There are two types of Vitamin D - Vitamin D2 and Vitamin D3. The latter, which is also called Cholecalciferol is the more potent form of Vitamin D, because it is the specific form made by the human body that is why it is also most often prescribed for dietary supplementation. Research done by EFSA or the European Food Safety Authority substantiate the following benefits of Vitamin D:
☑️ Vitamin D contributes to normal function of the immune system
☑️ Vitamin D contributes to the maintenance of normal bones, teeth and muscle function
☑️ Vitamin D contributes to the normal absorption/utilisation of calcium and phosphorus
☑️ Vitamin D has a role in the process of cell division
☑️ Vitamin D contributes to normal blood calcium levels
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