Vitamin D
Support for calcium balance, bones, and the immune system
Vitamin D plays an important role in regulating minerals in the body. It contributes to normal calcium levels in the blood and supports the absorption of calcium and phosphorus from food. Calcium and phosphorus are essential minerals for the development and maintenance of strong bones and teeth.
Additionally, Vitamin D helps maintain normal bones. It aids in bone formation and supports the maintenance of a strong skeleton throughout life.
Vitamin D also helps maintain the normal function of the immune system, meaning that it plays a role in the body's natural defense mechanisms.
Sources of Vitamin D
Vitamin D is found in limited amounts in foods. Good dietary sources include fatty fish such as salmon, mackerel, and herring, as well as liver, eggs, and fortified products like margarine and certain dairy products.
An important non-food source of Vitamin D is sunlight. The skin can produce Vitamin D under the influence of UV radiation. Factors such as skin type, age, season, and sunscreen use can affect production.
Forms and Absorption
Vitamin D exists in two forms: Vitamin D2 (ergocalciferol) and Vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol).
Vitamin D3 is produced in the skin and is primarily found in animal products.
Vitamin D2 is derived from plant sources, such as certain mushrooms.
Vitamin D3 is more efficiently absorbed and converted into the active form than Vitamin D2.
Because Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin, absorption is improved when it is consumed with a fat-rich meal.
For optimal Vitamin D status, a combination of sunlight exposure and a varied diet with Vitamin D-rich foods is recommended.
synonyms for Vitamin D: Vitamin D, vitamin D2, vitamin D3, cholecalciferol and ergocalciferol.
