Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin that plays an important role in calcium absorption and bone health. The body produces vitamin D naturally when exposed to sunlight, but it can also be obtained through certain food sources, such as fish and eggs. Getting sufficient amounts of vitamin D is critical to building and maintaining strong bones and teeth, as well as supporting a strong immune system. It is believed that vitamin D may also help protect against respiratory infections, such as COVID-19.
People who live in countries with short winter daylight hours are most at risk of vitamin D deficiency, due to a lack of sunlight. This means a large amount of vitamin D would need to be consumed in the diet, which can be difficult. In this article, we take a look at the health benefits of vitamin D supplements.
Strong bones
Vitamin D plays a role in regulating calcium absorption and maintaining phosphorus levels in the body, which are both essential minerals for healthy bones and teeth. Vitamin D deficiency can cause rickets in children, which is characterized by the softening of bones. It can also lead to loss of bone density in adults, increasing the risk of fractures and bone diseases such as osteoporosis.
Protect against disease and illness
Vitamin D is believed to help protect against certain diseases, as it is a key player in regulating the body’s immune response. By enhancing the function of the body’s main immune cells, T-cells and macrophages, it helps fight off illness and disease. Vitamin D also has anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce inflammation, which can contribute to the development of disease. Vitamin D deficiency may be linked to an increased risk of infection, disease, and immune-related disorders.
Healthy pregnancy and children
Vitamin D deficiency during pregnancy may increase the risk of preterm births, gestational diabetes, and other complications. Ensuring adequate vitamin D levels during pregnancy through supplementation may help reduce these risks.
Vitamin D deficiency in children may contribute to an increased risk for developing allergies. One study shows that children who eat vitamin D rich food from an early age, such as eggs, are less likely to develop food allergies later in life. It is also believed that vitamin D may improve the anti-inflammatory effects of glucocorticoids, which may be helpful for treating asthma.
Regulate mood
Vitamin D is believed to help regulate mood and reduce risk of depression. Research suggests that vitamin D supplements may help improve symptoms in people with depression, who have a vitamin D deficiency. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, low vitamin D levels may contribute to seasonal affective disorder, a condition caused by a lack of exposure to sunlight.
Vitamin D deficiency can have a number of serious health implications and is not uncommon, especially in countries that experience minimal sunlight. By taking a vitamin D supplement, you can ensure you are receiving plenty of vitamin D, for healthy bones and a strong immune system. New Leaf’s high strength vitamin D3 tablets deliver the benefits of sunshine that living and working indoors can deprive us of. These tablets are enriched with turmeric and elderberry fruit extracts, and fortified with zinc, to offer an effective dietary supplement.