Our bodies require many vitamins and minerals in order to function properly and sustain the various metabolic processes that keep up healthy and fit. One vitamin that is especially important for our physiology is Vitamin D, and there are many health benefits associated with the intake of Vitamin D. Vitamin D supports the following processes in our bodies:
· Provides calcium that contributes to the development of healthy bones and prevents medical conditions such as osteoporosis and arthritis.
· Facilitates the absorption of nutrients that the body needs to build up its immune system.
· Regulates blood pressure, reduces muscle spasms, reduces the chances of respiratory infections, facilitates insulin secretion, helps fight and ward off depression, helps skin appear younger, smoother, and healthier among various other effects.
As you can see, vitamin D is a vital nutrient that plays a major role in keeping our physical body functioning at its highest possible level. Many problems, ranging from frequent common colds to depression, can be mitigated by taking vitamin D supplements. Exposure to sunlight is also an excellent way of getting vitamin D in your system: exposing yourself to sunlight makes it possible for your skin cells to synthesize vitamin D by way of the healthy ultra-violet B rays. Since we are well aware of the dangers of overexposure to sunlight, especially in ozone depleted areas, taking vitamin D as a supplement can be a good way to boost your vitamin D intake if you are one of those people who tries to avoid too much sun exposure, but bear in mind that natural synthesis of vitamin D via sunlight is the most effective and potent form of vitamin D.
The health benefits of vitamin D go beyond preventative measures: vitamin D can also be used to treat various medical conditions. Increased vitamin D intake is recommended during the treatment of the following medical problems:
· Fibromyalgia
· Hypothyroidism
· Cancer
· Diabetes
· Osteoporosis
If you are suffering from one of these conditions, or are just looking for a way to boost your vitamin D intake, eating vitamin D fortified foods such as fish, milk, fresh fruits, vegetables and eggs will provide your physical body with good sources of vitamin D.
The health benefits of vitamin D are seemingly endless; it plays an important role in both preventing your body from “dysfunctioning” and keeping it functioning. Whether you integrate it into your diet, take supplements, or spend more time bathing in sunlight, make it a priority to get more vitamin D into your body, and reap the health and wellness benefits.
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