WHAT IS VITAMIN D?
A fat-soluble vitamin, vitamin D has many functions in preserving good health. It is also called a sunshine vitamin. In contrast to water-soluble vitamins, which dissolve in water and are easily eliminated from the body, fat-soluble vitamins are retained in fatty tissues and the liver, where they serve as a reserve for later usage. There are various types of vitamin D, but the two most significant are vitamin D2 (ergocalciferol) and vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol). Vitamin D3 is the type that the skin produces when exposed to ultraviolet (UV) sunlight, whereas vitamin D2 is generally derived through plant-based sources and supplements.
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF VITAMIN D?
Vitamin D is essential for various physiological functions in the human body. Some of its benefits are:
- Healthy Bones: Vitamin D is essential for encouraging calcium absorption in the intestines and preserving adequate amounts of calcium and phosphorus in the blood. These procedures are essential for the mineralization of bones, which keeps them sturdy and sound. Lack of vitamin D in youngsters can cause rickets, which is characterised by weakening of the bones and the appearance of having bowlegged legs. Similar to children, adults who don’t get enough vitamin D might develop osteomalacia, a condition marked by weak muscles and low bone density. This shortage has the potential to develop over time into osteoporosis, which is characterised by brittle and fragile bones.
- Immune Function: It is believed that consuming enough vitamin D supports a strong immune system and may lower the risk of autoimmune illnesses. Vitamin D may have a key role in immune function, and studies into the relationship between chronic vitamin D insufficiency and the emergence of autoimmune diseases such diabetes, asthma, and rheumatoid arthritis are still underway. Although laboratory research has suggested that vitamin D has positive impacts on human cells’ immunological responses, controlled human trials are required to corroborate these findings.
- Cardiovascular Health: Recent studies indicate that vitamin D may benefit cardiovascular health. The risk of cardiovascular disorders, such as heart disease and hypertension, may be decreased with adequate vitamin D levels. Vitamin D is thought to help control blood pressure, enhance blood vessel function, and lessen inflammation in the cardiovascular system. Maintaining appropriate vitamin D levels through a combination of solar exposure, food sources, and supplements if necessary is a proactive step towards promoting heart health, even though further research is required to pinpoint the exact mechanisms.
The potential advantages of vitamin D cover a wide range of aspects of our health, underscoring its significance as a nutrient that supports general health and vitality. However, it’s crucial to maintain a healthy level of vitamin D, and speaking with a medical expert can offer tailored advice based on your individual needs and circumstances.
HOW DOES VITAMIN D WORK IN HUMAN BODY?
Our skin experiences an extensive and fascinating process when it is exposed to ultraviolet B (UVB) rays from the sun. A cholesterol derivative eagerly absorbs these UVB photons within the layers of our skin, starting an amazing cascade of events. The creation of vitamin D3, commonly known as cholecalciferol, is triggered by this cosmic interaction. Like its nutritional counterpart, vitamin D3 is created in our skin and travels to the liver, where it is converted into calcidiol, or 25-hydroxyvitamin D. Within our body, this intermediate form functions as a critical reservoir.
Within the boundaries of our kidneys, the dramatic climax of this transforming voyage takes place. Here, calcidiol undergoes a second metamorphosis to become active calcitriol, the real star of the vitamin D story. A symphony of impacts are orchestrated inside of our body by this activated form. Regardless of how vitamin D is obtained—through diet or sunshine exposure—calcitriol has a significant impact. It promotes calcium absorption in the intestines, guaranteeing the availability of this important mineral for keeping healthy bones and teeth. Additionally, it promotes the absorption of calcium and phosphorus into bone tissue, which increases their mineralization and density, acting as a protector of bone health.
Understanding how vitamin D functions—whether acquired through diet or sunlight—highlights the essential role it plays in upholding general health. It also emphasises how critical it is to maintain adequate levels through a balanced diet and regular sun exposure. Finding the appropriate balance is crucial since both a lack of and an abundance of something can be harmful to your health. A healthcare practitioner can offer you individualised advice on how to best meet your vitamin D requirements.
HOW MUCH VITAMIN D CAN A PERSON TAKE?
The National Institutes of Health (NIH) recommends different amounts of vitamin D depending on age: 10 mcg (400 IU) for children under 12 months, 15 mcg (600 IU) for people aged 1 to 70, and 20 mcg (800 IU) for people 71 and above.
Your unique vitamin D requirements, however, depend on a number of variables, including your age, skin tone, geographic region, season, sun exposure, clothing preferences, and level of obesity. The amount of vitamin D you should aim for depends on these factors, so it’s best to speak with a dietician or healthcare provider for advice that is specifically catered to your situation. They can assist you in finding the ideal mix of dietary sources, supplements, and sun exposure to meet your needs for vitamin D for optimum health.
WHAT ARE THE VARIATIONS OF VITAMIN D?
Vitamin D is also available as:
- Vitamin D2 Ergocalciferol Oil 2.5% 25,000 ug /g 1,000,000 I.U. / g Synthetic
- Vitamin D2 Ergocalciferol Powder 0.25% 2500 ug /g 100,000 I.U. / g Synthetic
- Vitamin D2 Ergocalciferol Powder 100% 40,000,000 I.U. / g Synthetic
- Vitamin D3 Cholecalciferol Oil 2.5% 25,000 ug /g 1,000,000 I.U. / g Vegan
- Vitamin D3 Cholecalciferol Oil 2.5% 25,000 ug /g 1,000,000 I.U. / g Wool Lanolin
- Vitamin D3 Cholecalciferol Powder 0.25% 2500 ug /g 100,000 I.U. / g Vegan
- Vitamin D3 Cholecalciferol Oil 0.25% 25,000 ug /g 100,000 I.U. / g Wool Lanolin
Vitamin D is commonly available in:
- Vitamin D tablets
- Vitamin D capsules
- Vitamin D chewable tablets
- Vitamin D effervescent tablets
Glentworth Formulations is here to suit your every need. Everything from Tablets, Capsules and Powder blends.
If you are wanting to know more information, please get in contact with us. Either using the contact form or contacting us directly on: [email protected].
