Benefits of Vitamin D, The Body’s Wonderfully D-lightful Assistant

Benefits of Vitamin D. Vitamin D is an essential fat-soluble vitamin, which is  separated into 2 categories: a) Ergocalciferol (“D2”) which comes from the food we eat, and b) Cholecalciferol (“D3”) which is synthesized in the skin when exposed to the sun’s ultraviolet rays.

Vitamin D is necessary for normal growth and development in children. Vitamin D is crucial for the utilization of calcium and phosphorus in our body. Moreover, Vitamin D has a predominant number of different roles. One well known attribute of this vitamin, is its ability to strengthen bones. As noted above, this happens because Vitamin D activates the efficient uptake of calcium and magnesium. These minerals are indispensable in the formation of strong bones.

Notably, when our body does not get enough sunlight we become prone to brittle bones, also known as osteoporosis. This is why sufficient intake of this vitamin is so important.

Additionally, Vitamin D intake is one of the best ways to reduce the risk of suffering from osteopenia in our old age. It is also one of the ways to combat pain related to osteoarthritis if we are already afflicted with the condition.

The following are the top benefits of Vitamin D.

Benefits of Vitamin D, Top 9 Benefits

According to findings by international cancer groups, including The American Cancer Society, adequate levels of Vitamin D may help lower the risk of colon cancer, which is currently the 3rd most common cancer diagnosed in men and women in the United States.

1. Helps prevent osteoporosis. According to The National Academy of Medicine, Vitamin D is essential for maintaining bone health.
2. Vitamin D helps our body absorb calcium properly.
3. According to some studies, Vitamin D may have a role in preventing Diabetes Mellitus, although more research is needed.
4. Vitamin D may help lower risk of heart disease.
5. Helps in the regulation of our heart beat.
6. Linked to lowering breast cancer risk.
7. Assists in the proper function of our immune system.
8. Necessary for the body’s hormone regulation pathways.

Benefits of Vitamin D, Top 6 Vegan Sources 

1. Ultraviolet rays from the sun.
2. Shitake and Chanterelle mushrooms.
3. Dandelion greens.
4. Parsley.
5. Oatmeal
6. Sweet potatoes

Special Considerations

1. Higher risk groups may need regular monitoring of their Vitamin D level. These groups include: a) dark skinned individuals, b) obese individuals, c) institutionalized or hospitalized people, d) people with chronic bowel disease, e) people with liver disease, and f) individuals with kidney disease.
2. Too much of a good thing can become toxic!! People taking too much Vitamin D (usually in the form of supplements) can become ill.
3. Vitamin D levels in the blood greater than 100 ng/ml (250 nmol/ml) can have a negative impact on health.
4. The recommendation remains 400 IU/day.

Continue on to our posts  below and learn about all the vitamins you’ll need to stay healthy and fabulous!!