WHY IS VITAMIN D IMPORTANT FOR OUR BODY?

Vitamin D is essential because it acts like both a vitamin and a hormone in the body, playing a key role in many vital functions. Here’s why it’s important:

1. Bone and Teeth Health

• Helps the body absorb calcium and phosphorus, minerals needed to build and maintain strong bones and teeth.
• Prevents rickets in children (soft, weak bones) and osteomalacia/osteoporosis in adults (bone weakness and fractures).

2. Immune System Support

• Modulates immune responses, helping the body fight infections more effectively.
• Plays a role in reducing the risk of autoimmune diseases (like multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis).

3. Muscle Function

• Supports muscle strength and coordination.
• Low vitamin D levels are linked to muscle weakness and increased risk of falls in older adults.

4. Mood and Brain Health

• Involved in brain function and the production of certain neurotransmitters.
• Deficiency has been linked with depression, cognitive decline, and seasonal affective disorder (SAD).

5. Heart and Metabolic Health

• May help regulate blood pressure and cardiovascular function.
• Plays a role in insulin sensitivity and may reduce risk of type 2 diabetes.

6. Cell Growth and Inflammation

• Influences cell growth, differentiation, and repair.
• Has anti-inflammatory properties, which support overall health and disease prevention.

🔆 Main sources:

• Sunlight (UVB rays trigger vitamin D synthesis in the skin).
• Foods: fatty fish (salmon, sardines, mackerel), egg yolks, fortified dairy/plant milk, mushrooms.
• Supplements when sunlight exposure or diet is insufficient.