Vitamin D is a vitamin responsible for increasing intestinal absorption of calcium, magnesium and phosphate, and many other biological effects. It helps skin cell growth, repair and metabolism, optimising the skin’s immune system.

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Research suggests that vitamin D plays an important role by contributing in the maintenance of normal bones and muscle function, essential for women over 60+ who are at high risk of fractures due to osteoporosis.

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One of the best sources of Vitamin D is sunlight. Food sources include oily fish, such as tuna, salmon and mackerel; beef liver; cheese; and egg yolks. 

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According to Healthline, the benefits of Vitamin D are:

 

“Reduced Risk of Multiple Sclerosis

Research suggests that vitamin D reduces the risk of multiple sclerosis.

 

Decreased Chance of Developing Heart Disease

According to 2008 findings, vitamin D reduces the chance of developing heart disease.

 

Reduced Likelihood of Developing the Flu

Research suggests that vitamin D reduces the likelihood of developing the flu.

 

Reduced Depression

Research has shown that vitamin D might play an important role in regulating mood and warding off depression. In one study, scientists found that people with depression who received vitamin D supplements noticed an improvement in their symptoms.

 

Easier Weight Loss

In one study, people taking a daily calcium and vitamin D supplement were able to lose more weight than subjects taking a placebo supplement. The scientists said the extra calcium and vitamin D had an appetite-suppressing effect.”

 

Sources

 

1. Healthline. The Benefits of Vitamin D. Available at: https://www.healthline.com/health/food-nutrition/benefits-vitamin-d. 
    

2. JAMA Network. Serum 25-Hydroxyvitamin D Levels and Risk of Multiple Sclerosis. Available at: https://jamanetwork.com/article.aspx?articleid=204651.
    

3. PubMed.gov. Randomized trial of vitamin D supplementation to prevent seasonal influenza A in schoolchildren. Available at: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20219962/.
    

4. Wikipedia. Vitamin D.  Available at: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vitamin_D.

 

Disclaimer

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* Healthline content has been edited for brevity. For the full description, including sources, please visit The Benefits of Vitamin D on Healthline.com. 

 

All information on this webpage and website has been sourced and reported “as is” based on public sources. None of the statements on this web site have been evaluated by the FDA. Please read our Disclaimer for further information on the potential health benefits mentioned here.