Vitamin D – The Miracle Nutrient
Vitamin D is a naturally present vitamin in very few foods and is available as a dietary supplement. It is produced in the body when ultraviolet rays from sunlight strike the skin and trigger vitamin D synthesis. So if you don’t like the morning sunlight, are allergic to milk, or are vegan. Beware, you are the most prone candidate for Vitamin D Deficiency. But what does this Vitamin D do??? What are the roles of vitamin D in our body???
Roles of Vitamin D in Our body:-
Vitamin D has multiple roles in the body. It assists in:
- Promoting healthy bones and teeth
- Supporting immune, brain, and nervous system health
- Regulating insulin levels and supporting diabetes management
- Supporting lung function and Heart (Cardiovascular Function.)
- Influencing the expression of genes involved in cancer development
- Maintains health of fetus and mother
Few Studies Published related to Vit D are-
- A 2018 review of existing research suggested that some studies had found that vitamin D had a protective effect against the influenza virus.
- The American Academy of Allergy Asthma and Immunology (AAAAI) suggests that evidence points to a connection between low vitamin D exposure and an increased risk of allergic sensitization.
- One Study suggests that deficiency in vitamin D levels in pregnant women is associated with a higher risk of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children.
Sources of Vit D-
- Food -Very few foods in nature contain vitamin D. The flesh of fatty fish (such as salmon, tuna, and mackerel) and fish liver oils are among the best sources [1,11]. Small amounts of vitamin D are found in beef liver, cheese, and egg yolks.
- Sun exposure
Symptoms and Health Risks of Vitamin D Deficiency-
Symptoms of bone pain and muscle weakness can mean you have a vitamin D deficiency. However, for many people, the signs are subtle. Yet, even without symptoms, too little vitamin D can pose health risks. Low blood levels of the vitamin have been associated with the following:
- Increased risk of death from cardiovascular disease
- Cognitive impairment in older adults
- Severe asthma in children
- Cancer
- Rickets
Groups at Risk of Vitamin D Inadequacy
- Breastfed infants
- Older adults
- People with limited sun exposure
- People with dark skin
- People with inflammatory bowel disease and other conditions causing fat malabsorption
- People who are obese or who have undergone gastric bypass surgery
Diagnosis-
Serum Vitamin D Level- Simple Blood Test can detect vitamin D deficiency and prevent further complications.
Disclaimer :
“The content herein has been developed by clinicians and/or medical writers and/or experts. The information contained herein is for educational purpose only and we request you to please consult a Registered Medical Practioner or Doctor before deciding the appropriate diagnosis and treatment.”
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