Vitamin D

Known as the “sunshine vitamin” for bone health, new research reveals that benefits of Vitamin D are more than just bone health.  Aside from osteoporosis, an amazing number of diseases, are caused or worsened by insufficient vitamin D.

Benefits of Vitamin D

There are innumerable benefits of vitamin D known today:

Stronger bones- By increased absorption, longer retention and better utilization of Calcium and Phosphates in our body, it calcifies growing bones of children and protects them from rickets.

Keeps cancer at bay- There is a documented role of the benefits of vitamin D in cancer prevention.  It is one of the most potent regulators of cell cycle, working to prevent initiation and uncontrolled growth of cancerous cells.

Prevent Infections- It plays an important role in the immune system’s battle against infection and control of inflammation.  Immune cells have vitamin D receptors, and activated vitamin D is a very effective modulator of immune functioning, reducing the inflammatory response and limiting autoimmune attacks.

Feel better- Who has not noticed that they feel better on a bright sunny day? Scientists now know that part of the magic of sunlight has to do with benefits of Vitamin D.  Seasonal affective disorder (SAD), schizophrenia, autism, Parkinson’s disease, and even Alzheimer’s disease have been linked in one way or another to insufficient vitamin D.

Vitamin D is unique because it is derived both from sunlight and foods.  It is synthesized by the body by the action of UV rays of sunlight on 7-dehydroxycholesterol, which is stored in the skin in large amounts.  Exposing ourselves to sunlight is the most important source of vitamin D. Ten to fifteen minutes of sun exposure at least two times per week to the face, arms, hands, or back is usually sufficient to provide adequate vitamin D.

Foods with Vitamin D are mostly those of animal origin.
* Milk
* Liver
* Egg yolk
* Butter and cheese
* Some species of fish are rich in vitamin D.

Fish liver oils are the richest source of vitamin D and their regular intake easily meet the 400 IU required by our body every day.

Vitamin D Toxicity

Considering that the daily synthesis of 10,000 IU is normal from body exposure to the sun and vitamin D toxicity is found only if the intake exceeds 40,000 IU/day, the safe upper limit is set at 2000 IU. When taken in excess, the vitamin is stored in the liver or may even produce symptoms of toxicity namely; anorexia, nausea, vomiting, thirst and drowsiness.

Bottom Line:
It's critical we get our daily requirements of Vitamin D so be sure and include it with your supplements. 

Leave 'Benefits of Vitamin D' to Shop Vitamin D Supplements