Vitamin D and Its Multiple Benefits.
Until recently vitamin D was considered important only as a necessary
element for the absorption of calcium and the consequent building of
bone density. However, the importance of vitamin D has broadened
significantly in the last few months as more than 100 laboratories have
been doing studies on the additional benefits of vitamin D. Vitamin D
is emerging as perhaps the most important vitamin on the spectrum.
Vitamin D cannot be produced by the body but it is a necessary
element for life. It is available in a few foods. The major
source of vitamin D is sunshine. Vitamin D is also available in
supplements, but is more effective in rays from the sun. Most of the
research has been on animals, but research is beginning to be done on
humans. The benefits revealed have been spectacular. Advancing age
requires more vitamin D but thirty minutes a day of sunshine will
provide an ample supply to share in the benefits listed below.
Vitamin D essentially promotes a) muscle strength b) bone density and c) cellular growth and immunity.
Because it promotes muscle strength, vitamin D is particularly
important in preventing weakness in the elderly, who often experience
weariness in their legs.
Because it promotes bone density, vitamin D protects against
osteoporosis and against loss of bone in the jaw (which can lead to
loss of teeth). Vitamin D supports the health of mothers, fetuses and
children. One study checked bone mass on 198 nine year old children
whose mothers took vitamin D supplements during pregnancy. The children
had significantly higher bone mass than the children whose mothers did
not take such supplements.
Because vitamin D promotes the immune system, it protects against
deadly diseases such as multiple sclerosis, diabetes and many cancers.
