Vitamin D Facts

In this article, you will learn more about what vitamin D is and a few interesting facts about this beneficial vitamin.

What is Vitamin D?

Vitamin D is a fat soluble vitamin mostly obtained through exposure to sunlight or UV rays. It can also be obtained through supplements and is not commonly acquired through food.

Why is Vitamin D important?

Calcium needs vitamin D – Vitamin D is necessary for calcium absorption. In other words, if you are vitamin D deficient, your body will not absorb proper amounts of calcium.

The framework of your body depends on it – Vitamin D is needed for normal bone growth and post-operative bone growth. Children need vitamin D for bone development and adults need vitamin D to prevent brittle bones. People who have had surgery involving any bone(s) need vitamin D to encourage bone growth.

Cheaper than NSAIDS – Vitamin D is necessary for a healthy immune system and it does wonders for the healing process. It has been shown to help inflammatory disorders such as arthritis. In cases where there is a vitamin D deficiency, people generally heal slower.

Other reasons why Vitamin D is beneficial:

- Deficiency has been linked with high blood pressure, blood sugar disorders and even cancer.

- Vitamin D naturally works against stress and anxiety.

- Including vitamin D rich foods is a key component to a complete diet.

What happens when you have too much:

Weigh loss, kidney issues and cardiovascular damage can ensue. To avoid excessive vitamin D intake, try obtaining vitamin D naturally rather than through supplements – most toxicity has been linked to high supplement intake.

How to get the right amount of vitamin D:

Eat plenty of grains, fruits and vegetables. Milk and dairy products also contain vitamin D. Beans, nuts, poultry, fish and lean meats also contain vitamin D. Sunlight is a natural way to obtain vitamin D, but always wear sunscreen while in direct sunlight.

Read more: http://healthmad.com/nutrition/vitamin-d-facts/#ixzz1zcI0FRkj

Until next time, live. laugh. love.

Heather Hawkins

Lab Rat Mama >>>