By Grant Mya
You’ve probably heard about vitamin D, an important nutrient our bodies naturally produce. However, there are times when you may be deficient in the nutrient, which is why supplementation from brands like Thorne Research at Supplement First may be required.
But that might leave you wondering – Why do we need vitamin D in the first place? Read on to learn more about why you might need to take vitamin D supplements and the benefits this nutrient offers.
Why You Should Take a Vitamin D Supplements
Why do certain groups have more of a risk of vitamin D deficiency? Usually, we can trace this back to their lifestyle.
For example, vegans are more likely to have a vitamin D deficiency because they don’t consume food sources rich in vitamin D. This includes meat, fish, egg yolks, or dairy products.
Those with obesity may also require vitamin D supplements from brands like Vital Nutrients at Supplement First. This may be due to the fact those with obesity would expose to less skin from skin, which results in a decrease in vitamin D absorption.
Seniors are also at risk of vitamin D deficiency as they are less likely to spend time outdoors, as well as a diet with fewer vitamin D-rich food sources.
Other individuals who may require vitamin D supplementation are those who live in areas that don’t get much sun or those who cover their skin completely when outdoors due to lack of sun exposure.
Benefits of Vitamin D
Here are the benefits of getting enough vitamin D:
Prevent Bone Diseases
Vitamin D helps with calcium absorption. If you don’t get enough of vitamin D, your body won’t get enough of calcitriol, calcium’s active form.
Calcium absorption allows our bodies to maintain sufficient levels of calcitriol and phosphate, which promote better bone growth and maintenance,
As such, getting adequate amounts of vitamin D is important to prevent bone diseases like rickets in children, osteomalacia in adults, as well as osteoporosis in seniors.
Improve Symptoms of SAD
Researchers have shown that one’s vitamin D levels can play a role in reducing the risk of seasonal affective disorder.
Studies showed that vitamin D’s effectiveness as a depression treatment showed mixed results, but there is one showing promise. A review and meta-analysis by the Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition discovered that daily vitamin D supplementation may help reduce depressive symptoms.
Protect Against Respiratory Infections
When you increase your vitamin D levels when you’re deficient, you’ll notice that you’ll experience fewer symptoms of colds and the flu. Studies have shown its effectiveness in protecting people against common colds, but there are a few limitations to note of.
There have been studies that showed how supplementing with vitamin D daily can protect against negative outcomes related to COVID-19. However, additional studies is required.
Wrapping It Up
If you believe you need a vitamin D supplement, it’s best to speak with your doctor to get tested regarding any nutrient deficiencies.
