What’s the Deal with Vitamin D?

What’s the Deal With Vitamin D?

We all know of calcium’s important role in building and maintaining strong and healthy bones. However, did you know that Vitamin D is essential for stimulating calcium absorption from the gut and promoting absorption of calcium in the bones?[1] What’s more, there is evidence to suggest that Vitamin D has a positive effect on the immune system[2], plays a role in insulin secretion[3] and can help regulate blood pressure. Vitamin D is also thought to play key role in disease prevention. For example, a recent study found that Vitamin D supplementation is more effective than vaccines in protecting children and adults from influenza[4]. High levels of Vitamin D have also been linked to a reduced risk of breast cancer in premenopausal women[5] while many other studies suggest that Vitamin D can act as a shield against other forms of cancer such as lung, skin, colon[6], ovary, prostate and bone[7].

Despite these benefits, roughly 1/3 of Australians are low in Vitamin D. Not only are these Australians missing out on the potential health benefits of Vitamin D but they are also far more susceptible to diseases such as osteoporosis and osteomalacia[8]. Other negative effects seen with Vitamin D deficiency may include an increase in muscle weakness, bodily aches and pains[9], arterial stiffness[10], fatigue, depression, menstrual problems and migraines[11].

So, what exactly is Vitamin D and how can you increase your intake? Interestingly, Vitamin D is not a true vitamin. Rather, it is a prohormone that is produced photochemically in the skin. It is actually through historical accident that Vitamin D has been classified as a vitamin rather than a steroid hormone.

One of the best sources of Vitamin D is solar UltraViolet-B (UVB) radiation from the sun. Adequate sun (UVB) exposure; 20mins/day, without sunscreen; will generally allow you to synthesize all the Vitamin D you need to prevent deficiency. However, with today’s hectic lifestyle, the shift towards office jobs and longer working hours, most are finding it increasingly difficult to get any sun at all!

Oily fish such as sardines, mackerel, herring and salmon are also good sources of Vitamin D. However, very few foods naturally contain Vitamin D, and it is very difficult to obtain adequate levels solely from the diet. All things considered, an easy alternative to help increase your Vitamin D intake is to incorporate a Vitamin D supplement into your daily routine. Most Vitamin D supplements are available from your local health food store or pharmacy and contain cholecaliciferol; a form of Vitamin D which is structurally comparable to steroids such as cholesterol, cortisol and testosterone.

With the amazing benefits that can be gained from Vitamin D it is hard to overlook the importance of maintaining healthy levels. So have your Vitamin D checked by your local family doctor and incorporate a reputable Vitamin D supplement into your daily regime to experience improved health and wellbeing.