Vitamin D: Why This Sunshine Vitamin Is Crucial For Your Health?

Vitamin D is frequently called as “sunshine vitamin” as the body produces it when the skin is exposed to sunlight. It plays a vital role in maintaining healthy bones, teeth, and overall well-being. The adequate presence of the Vitamin D in the body also ensures that the main organs such as brain, heart, lungs, muscles can function effectively and helps the body fight infections. Sunlight is the chief source of Vitamin D.

Major Sources Of Vitamin D

Most of the individuals should be able to get all the Vitamin D they receive from sunlight. The body can create it from direct sunlight on the skin. It is worth noting that between the months of October and early March, humans do not make adequate vitamin D from sunlight. It is also discovered in various foods that may include oily fish such as salmon, sardines, trout, mackerel, etc. We can also get the vitamin from red meat, egg yolks, fortified foods, etc.

How Much Vitamin D You Need?

According to report published in National Institutes of Health, “the vitamin D supplement/replacement regimen in adults should be:

Vitamin D sufficiency: Cholecalciferol 60,000 IU, Once A Month

Vitamin D insufficiency: Cholecalciferol 60,000IU, once a week for 8 weeks (once sufficiency is achieved, transition to cholecalciferol 60,000 IU, once a month)

Vitamin D deficiency: Cholecalciferol 60,000 IU, once a week for 12 weeks (once sufficiency is achieved, transition to cholecalciferol 60,000 IU, once a month).”

The term "60000 IU" refers to a dosage of 60,000 International Units of a substance  used for Vitamin D (cholecalciferol or D3) in a medical context.

Meanwhile, The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) suggests a daily vitamin D supplement of 400 IU (International Units) for Indians with minimal sun exposure while other experts recommend 600-800 IU for adults to maintain sufficiency amid prevalent deficiencies in India. 

Check some of the benefits of adequate Vitamin D below:

Supports Healthy Bones, Teeth:  The key function of vitamin D in our body is to absorb calcium and phosphorous received from food. These minerals are vital to build and maintain healthy, strong bones and teeth. Insufficiency of vitamin D may lead to decreased calcium absorption that may cause weaker, painful bones and higher risk of fractures. Severe deficiency of vitamin D in children may cause rickets and in adults it may lead to osteoporosis.  

Improves Immunity: It plays vital role in supporting stronger immunity. It can activate immune cells like T-cells and macrophages that can protect body from infections. When you take sufficient vitamin D it can effectively bring down the risk of cold, flu, and respiratory infections. It can regulate inflammatory responses thus letting the immunity to respond strongly.

Improves Muscle Function: It is required for efficient muscle functioning and strength. Inadequate vitamin D has been linked with weak muscles, cramps, and fatigue. It is significant to maintain adequate levels of vitamin D as it can boost muscle performance and alleviate the risk of bone issues among older adults.  

Improves Heart Health: It also supports heart health by simply regulating blood pressure and declining inflammation. Sufficient levels of vitamin D has been closely linked to lower risks of heart diseases and better cardiovascular function. It can also maintain healthy blood vessels and overall circulations. 

Disclaimer: This content is for general informational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider with any questions about your health or treatment options.