Benefits
If you buy through links on this page, we may earn a small commission. Here’s our process. A human body produces vitamin D as a response to sun exposure.
Vitamin D is essential for several reasons, including maintaining healthy bones and teeth. It may also protect against a range of diseases and conditions, such as type 1 diabetes. Despite its name, vitamin D is not a vitamin, but a prohormone, or precursor of a hormone.
Deficiency
Absorbing sunlight is essential for the skin to produce vitamin D. Sunscreen: A sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 30 can reduce the body’s ability to synthesize the vitamin by 95% or more . Geographical location: People who live in northern latitudes or areas of high pollution, work night shifts, or are homebound should aim to consume vitamin D from food sources whenever possible. Breastfeeding: Infants who exclusively breastfeed need a vitamin D supplement, especially if they have dark skin or have minimal sun exposure.
Symptoms Symptoms of vitamin D deficiency may include: regular sickness or infection
fatigue
bone and back pain
low mood
impaired wound healing
hair loss
muscle pain If Vitamin D deficiency continues for long periods, it may result in complications , such as: cardiovascular conditions
autoimmune problems
neurological diseases
infections
pregnancy complications
certain cancers, especially breast, prostate, and colon. One microgram of vitamin D is equal to 40 IU. 400 IU (10 mcg).
Children 1–18 years: 600 IU (15 mcg). 600 IU (15 mcg). Adults up to 70 years: 600 IU (15 mcg).
600 IU (15 mcg). Pregnant or lactating women: 600 IU (15 mcg).
1. Vitamin D May Fight Disease
A 2018 review of population-based studies found that low levels of vitamin D are linked with an increased risk of MS Decreasing the chance of heart disease. Low vitamin D levels have been linked to increased risk of heart diseases such as hypertension, heart failure, and stroke. Although studies are mixed, vitamin D may make severe flu and COVID-19 infections less likely.
A recent review found that low vitamin D levels contribute to acute respiratory distress syndrome Supporting immune health.
Symptoms And Health Risks Of Vitamin D Deficiency
Symptoms of bone pain and muscle weakness can mean you have a vitamin D deficiency.
Yet, even without symptoms, too little vitamin D can pose health risks.