Fat soluble vitamin D is found naturally in some foods and added to others. It can be synthesized in the body after exposure to ultraviolet radiation from the sun. The Mayo Clinic asserts that “as little as 10 minutes of exposure is thought to be enough to prevent deficiencies.”
The main function of vitamin D is to contribute to normal ranges of phosphorus and calcium in the blood. It also works with hormones, minerals, and other vitamins to promote bone mineralization.
Foods that contain vitamin D
| Milk, Soy Milk | Beef | Sardines |
| Egg Yolks | Liver | Salmon |
| Swiss Cheese | Fish Oil, Cod Liver Oil | Trout |
| Orange Juice | Vegetables | Halibut |
| Oatmeal |
Taking an adequate amount of vitamin D may help to promote optimal:
- immune activity
- cell proliferation
- bone density
- neurological function
Children with a deficiency in Vitamin D may get rickets (weak bones), while adults suffer from osteomalacia. A deficiency of vitamin D is generally linked to one or more of the following occurrences:
- inadequate intake
- inability to convert to its active form
- poor intestinal absorption
- limited expose to sunlight
Recent scientific research indicates that a deficiency in vitamin D may heavily contribute to the following:
- cancer
- diabetes
- hypertension
- schizophrenia
- osteoarthritis
- cognitive issues
- kidney disease
- multiple sclerosis
- muscle weakness
- pulmonary disease
- cardiovascular disease
- respiratory problems
- gastrointestinal problems
Check for vitamin D deficiency with a home testing kit.
Medical science shows that adequate amounts of vitamin D appear to provide more than one healthy benefit; therefore, a daily supplement may play an important role in improving the general public’s health – offering an inexpensive start towards better health.
(Note that having too much vitamin D can result in toxicity. Take time to do your research and consult with appropriate health professionals before starting a new supplement.)
Jennifer Cebulak, Research Editor
1] http://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/vitamind-HealthProfessional/
[1] http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/vitamin-d/NS_patient-vitamind
