Vitamin D: how the sunshine vitamin benefits your health

Vitamin D is one of the latest nutrients en vogue with researchers. The media is almost daily giving us updates regarding the disease fighting potential of this wonder vitamin. 

We already know that vitamin D is important in building strong bones and teeth but did you know that vitamin D protects the heart and is beneficial in maintaining healthy blood pressure? It also does so much more for us.

Let's take a look at some of the benefits.

Vitamin D-What is it?

Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin that requires sunlight and skin oils to  be produced.  People on  low-fat diets are often at risk from not absorbing enough of the fat-soluble vitamins (vitamins A, D and E).  Fat is also needed for storage of these nutrients.  

Low fat diets also impact our nerves since they are up to 75 percent fat.  A low-fat diet with low levels of vitamin D can add to nerve damage and other neurological problems.

Vitamin D deficiency disease

Since so many of Americans have a sedentary lifestyle which consists of working in an office and coming home to indoor chores and responsibilities, we are at risk for deficiency of this very important vitamin.  Resarchers have found that people with low levels of vitamin D had a 57 percent higher risk of developing Typ II or adult onset diabetes as this nutrient has an important role in regulating blood sugar.

Vitamin D deficiency disease also can cause depresion and anxiety.  Scientist also speculate that vitamin D3 may stop skin cancer cells from turning malignant.  Vitamin D has also been cited as reducing the chances of a woman developing breast cancer.

Unfortuntely, many medical treatments and medication can contribute to deficiency states.  For example, chronic use of prescription antidepressants cause deficiency of vitamin D. 

Wholesome sources of Vitamin D

The sun is one of the best natural sources of vitamin D.  Try to avoid midday sun though.  Remember also that sunblock interferes with the body's production of this vitamin.  Antioxidant supplements a few days before sun exposure prove beneficial in protecting the skin from the harmful UVA and UVB rays.

Food sources of vitamin D include tuna, salmon and egg yolks.

Sources:

Freeman, Dian, "Kids, Go Out And Play!"  Natural Awakenings Magazine