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Everyone’s heard of the various health benefits of vitamin D, such as standing under the sun, but is that the only way to acquire it? What’s so great about vitamin D?
Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin, meaning it gets absorbed in the body when there are adequate fats present. It comprises vitamins D1, D2 and D3. Unlike water-soluble vitamins like vitamin C and B-complex, these vitamins do not absorb as easily into the body and require you to consume fats to facilitate their absorption.
Other fat-soluble vitamins are vitamins A, E and K. Vitamin D is also produced in the body when it's directly exposed to sunlight. Moreover, it can also be acquired from the foods we eat.
Some sources of vitamin D include:
• Seafood
• Egg yolks
• Milk
• Yogurt
• Beef liver
• Mushrooms
• Fortified cereals and juices.
While obtaining this vitamin from natural food sources is viable, it may be difficult for certain groups of people, such as vegetarians and vegans, to get their required intake. This can also be taken in the form of supplements, such as multivitamins, tablets, and gummies.
What are the Health Benefits of Vitamin D?
This vitamin is essential for a number of physiological processes in the body. Whether you get your share of it from supplements or natural food sources, the role Vitamin D plays remains the same.
Some of the health benefits of Vitamin D are:
1. Maintains bone health
One of the great benefits of vitamin D is its ability to maintain bone health. It facilitates the absorption of minerals necessary to strengthen bones, increasing their mineral density.
In fact, a deficiency of this vitamin in children can lead to irregular bone growth or even soft bones, which eventually translates to rickets. Further, it can lead to osteoporosis in later years.
2. Boosts immune function
One great benefit of Vitamin D is that it improves your immune health and reduces the risk of chronic illnesses.
Studies show that a deficiency in vitamin D is a common link among individuals with diabetes, asthma, and arthritis.
3. Regulates mood
Research has shown that individuals find a reduction in symptoms of depression and anxiety after taking vitamin D supplements regularly. While further research is needed on the subject, it's safe to say that regular intake can aid with reducing these symptoms.
4. Reduces risk of chronic illnesses
One of the great benefits of Vitamin D is that it is believed to be helpful in reducing the risk of certain diseases, such as heart disease, hypertension, rheumatoid arthritis, respiratory diseases, and irritable bowel syndrome.
5. Facilitates absorption of minerals
This vitamin is known to facilitate the absorption of essential minerals, such as calcium and phosphorous. This contributes to the development and mineralization of bones.
Yes, you get some good vitamin D from the sun, but let’s not neglect our diet. This vitamin is helpful for several functions as discussed above. The benefits of vitamin D are extensive, and so are the ways to obtain it.
Nevertheless, it's advisable not to miss out on any of the essential vitamins we are supposed to consume. Perhaps consider taking a multivitamin even if you follow a non-vegetarian diet.
