Vitamin D is called the "sunshine vitamin" because it is best synthesized through sunlight. It is the main factor in its formation in the body. It can also be obtained from some foods, such as fish, eggs, clams and oysters, seafood.
One of the main functions of vitamin D is to promote the absorption of calcium from food, which strengthens bones and makes them unbreakable. Vitamin D, however, has a number of other equally important functions for the body's he alth, for which it should not be underestimated. Who are they?
Vitamin D strengthens muscles
Along with supporting the bone system, vitamin D also contributes to the healing and strengthening of the muscles. Its lack can increase the risk of muscle weakness, which in turn not only interferes with the normal work and movement of the body, but also threatens the safety of the bones. Muscles are an important component of the skeletal system. If they are in a he althy and stable condition, they manage to keep the bones and joints in good shape.
Vitamin D supports the immune system and fights inflammation
Vitamin D plays an important role in maintaining a he althy immune system. It contributes to the fight against viruses, bacteria and pathogens that cause infections and diseases. This important vitamin is also helpful in suppressing local inflammations in the body that we often don't suspect, but which cause some further he alth problems.
Vitamin D strengthens oral he alth
Since vitamin D is directly involved in the absorption of calcium in the blood, it also plays an essential role for teeth. Optimal levels of vitamin D in the body contribute to overall good oral he alth and reduce the risk of tooth decay and gum disease.
Vitamin D helps prevent diabetes
Studies for this claim are not fully proven and definitive, but there is nevertheless some effect of vitamin D on the absorption of blood sugar and improving the sensitivity of cells to insulin. A 2006 study in the journal Diabetes Care found that while vitamin D alone does not effectively reduce the risk of high blood sugar, taking vitamin D in combination with calcium may lower the risk of type 2 diabetes in the long term.
Vitamin D helps in weight loss
Obesity is a major risk factor for many diseases, some of them really serious. Low levels of vitamin D in the blood can be an obstacle to weight loss. A 2009 study in the British Journal of Nutrition found that in overweight women, or in overweight women with low blood calcium levels, those who took a daily dose of calcium combined with vitamin D had greater success in shedding pounds from the others.
Vitamin D fights depression
The sun fills us with a good mood and this is not just a poetic metaphor. It is the main factor for the synthesis of vitamin D, which plays a very important role in controlling mood and fighting depression. A 2017 study published in the journal Neuropsychology found a link between depression and vitamin D deficiency, reports he alth.com.
