Vitamin D

Vitamin D is often called the “Sunshine Vitamin” due to the human body’s natural ability to create this nutrient from exposure to sunlight. However, there are different forms of Vitamin D, and the one produced by sunlight is known as Vitamin D3.

Vitamin D has several critical roles in the human body including (but not limited to):

• Maintaining normal blood levels of calcium and phosphorus
• Aids in the absorption of calcium
• Promotes strong teeth and bones
• Increasing bone mineral density
• May provide protection against osteoporosis

Vitamin D deficiencies are commonly associated with bone problems such as rickets in children. The elderly are prone to Vitamin D deficiency, as well as the obese and anyone who has very limited exposure to the sun.

The recommended daily intake of Vitamin D will vary, though a typical dosage is 600 to 800IU’s per day.