Why is it necessary to check your Vitamin D levels
Why is it necessary to check your Vitamin D levels
Vitamin D also called as the sunshine vitamin is produced in response to sunlight exposure in our body. Vitamin D is best absorbed from sunlight. Food sources include fortified foods, sardines, fish oils, eggs, cheese, beef and mushrooms (exposed to sun)
Some of the benefits of Vitamin D include:
- Promotion of healthy bones and regulates calcium as well as phosphorus absorption
- Protection against autoimmune diseases like Type 1 Diabetes
- Promotion of immune and brain health
- Is protective against cancer and cardiovascular diseases
- Research also suggests Vitamin D can be possibly used to treat depression and mood disorders.
Deficiency:
Deficiency of vitamin D mainly occurs due to inadequate diet, usage of creams/sunscreens that block UV rays exposure, dark complexion, clothes covering a major part of our skin, and renal or gastrointestinal disorders.
Deficiency of vitamin D can lead to osteoporosis (in adults), rickets (in children), increased risk of respiratory, cardiovascular, allergic disorders.
Is vitamin D protective against COVID-19?
According to a study conducted by William B. Grant, Vitamin D was found to reduce the risk of influenza and Covid-19 related infections and deaths. Another study conducted by D.M. McCartney and D.G. Byrne published in Irish Medical Journal indicates that vitamin D deficiency may contribute to increased risk of respiratory infections including Covid-19. Hence it is essential for the vulnerable populations especially older adults consume this vitamin.
The upper limit for Vitamin D according to health care experts is 4000 IU per day. Excess Vitamin D can lead to toxicity issues. Hence it is best to consume from natural sources.
