Vitamin D
Vitamin D is a fat soluble vitamin that mainly aids in the health of strong bones and teeth. The main purpose is to maintain healthy levels of calcium in the human body. Vitamin D increases the absorption of calcium and decreases the urinary calcium loss. It also contributes to the role of the immunity system and blood cell formation. It can help prevent many diseases such as cancer, multiple sclerosis, and diabetes. It is much needed in the producing of and maintaining adequate levels of insulin in the pancreas. Vitamin D has various uses to the human body and is essential for healthy living. It is recommended that supplements be taken by those individuals who do not consume an adequate amount daily.
Sun exposure and the proper wholesome foods can provide the body with enough vitamin D. Some good wholesome foods that contain vitamin D are cod liver oil, egg yolks and butter. Individuals who are exposed to sunlight usually do not need to take supplements in order to consume more vitamin D. Vitamin D synthesis increases through the penetration of sunlight. Those who live in areas with excessive rain and cloudy skies are more susceptible to developing a deficiency.
A deficiency of vitamin D, usually seen among adults, may result in the softening of bones and abnormal bone function. Vegetarians are also more commonly known to develop a deficiency due to an avoidance of dairy products. Alcoholics and individuals who suffer of a liver of kidney disease are likely to obtain a deficiency as well. These individuals can most often produce vitamin D however are unable to activate it. Those who suffer from intestinal malabsorption can also develop a deficiency.
It is rare to consume excess amounts of vitamin D, however some side effects found from an excess absorption of vitamin D include headaches, weight loss, and kidney stones and in some cases deafness, blindness, increases thirst, increased urination, diarrhea, irritability and even death.
