Vitamin D is a nutrient important for many life processes such as absorption of calcium into our bodies, so we must learn their roles and how we can incorporate into our body. In VivirSalud we tell you about the benefits of vitamin D, so you will understand how important it is in our lives.
What is vitamin D?
Vitamin D is a nutrient belonging to the fat soluble vitamins, which is involved in the absorption of calcium and phosphorus. People who spend enough time in the sun to meet their needs for this vitamin, since the sun promotes its synthesis in the skin. Generally, one hour per week in the sun is more than enough, but many people still are not exposed to the sun to produce the necessary quantities to produce the benefits of vitamin D.
Moreover, as we age, we tend to produce less vitamin D, although we have adequate exposure to sun, so you may need to ingest it through supplements.
What are the functions of vitamin D?
It is crucial for the absorption and metabolism of calcium and phosphorus, essential for maintaining healthy bones.
It is a regulator of the immune system.
You can reduce the risk of developing multiple sclerosis. Multiple sclerosis is much less frequent the closer you get to the tropics, where there is more sunlight, according to the University of Sciences
You can play a key role in helping the brain to keep working.
It seems to be related to maintaining a healthy body weight, according to a study at the Medical College of Georgia, USA
You can reduce the severity and frequency of asthma symptoms, and also the probability of hospitalization for asthma, according to researchers at the School of Medicine, Harvard University.
It has been shown to reduce the risk of developing rheumatoid arthritis in women.
A form of vitamin D could be a major protections of the body against damage from low levels of radiation, according to the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene New York City.
Several studies have shown that people with adequate levels of vitamin D have a significantly lower risk of developing cancer compared with those with lower levels.
Where can I get vitamin D?
Vitamin D can be found in various foods such as milk (including fortified with vitamin), some fish, cod liver oil, eggs and other foods. If you have a daily exposure to the sun (it is not necessary that you get to roast to get vitamin D), your body can synthesize it and not need supplements, unless you have an elderly or can not synthesize correctly, so you should consult with your doctor if you need to consume supplements.
Vitamins are very important for the proper functioning of our body, we must get used to eating a healthy diet and maintain a lifestyle that allows us to acquire these nutrients naturally.
