Vitamin D,” the sunshine vitamin”, fulfills a variety of functions in the human body. In today’s world of closed rooms, more and more people are receiving too little vitamin D. The lack of time outdoors leads to a deficiency that can now be regarded as a widespread disease. This deficiency can have an impact on health and cause various physical and psychological symptoms or make your general well-being worse.
It is a known fact that to prevent is always better than to cure. A person’s health depends on many different factors. In addition to medical and physiological aspects, the mind is also responsible for the well-being of the body. Relationships, work, and stressful situations demand a lot from us in today’s fast-paced world, and sometimes it’s the small things in life that can make a significant change. A prime example is vitamin D.
Formation and absorption
The vitamin is fat-soluble vitamin and consists of several sub-forms. The most important sub-forms are vitamin D2 (ergocalciferol) and vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol).
The largest portion (between 80 and 90 percent) of vitamin D is produced by the body itself. To do this, the body uses direct sunlight (UV-B rays). UV-B rays do not penetrate windows, so staying outdoors is essential for the vitamin to build up. The body consumes the rest of the vitamin D through food. Fish and free-range eggs make a contribution to the D supply. Vegans and vegetarians must pay particular attention to the adequate intake of vitamin D3.
In addition, dietary supplements can also increase intake and promote healthy vitamin levels in the body. Meanwhile, more and more experts are recommending dietary supplements against symptoms of vitamin D deficiency, especially in the autumn and winter months when the sunlight is no longer sufficient for stable vitamin production, even outdoors.
Functions
Like many other vitamins, vitamin D is responsible for a large number of metabolic processes and tasks in the body. First and foremost, its paramount importance for the immune system should be mentioned. Vitamin D deficiency symptoms often occur in moderate and severe illnesses. This indicates that symptoms of illness are closely intertwined with a vitamin D deficiency. For example, those who have a deficiency have to struggle more often with infections.
The vitamin is also important for bone health, has a positive effect on the cardiovascular system, and promotes nerve health. In addition, it plays an important role in hormone regulation.
Consequences of vitamin D deficiency
The most famous symptom concerns the structure of the bones. A deficiency promotes fragile bones. In addition, the immune system suffers from an undersupply of the vitamin. People with vitamin D deficiency are often the victims of infections and colds. A connection with autoimmune diseases, high blood pressure, and cardiovascular diseases is also discussed in the research.
Deficiency symptoms at a glance:
- Weakened immune system
- Bad mood and depression
- Muscle pain, joint pain, muscle weakness
- Exhaustion
- Bone pain
Diet and our own lifestyle are partly responsible for our health. Nutrients and vitamins are indispensable components of a healthy organism. Vitamin D3 is no exception. On the contrary: Vitamin D3 clearly shows that even the minutest things can have an immense impact.