Five forms of vitamin D have been discovered, vitamin D1,
to D5. However, the one form that seems to matter to us the most is
vitamin D3.
Vitamin D3
Most people receive an ample supply of Vitamin D3 from the sun, but with
the increased awareness of skin cancer from sun exposure, those who avoid the
sun or those who apply heavy sunblock may suffer from a Vitamin D3 deficiency.
Few foods offer adequate Vitamin D3 but fish, cod liver oil and eggs provide
small amounts of the hormone. Fortunately, supplements offer an alternative way
to increase the body's Vitamin D3 levels.
Benefits of Vitamin D3
Healthy Immune System - Vitamin D helps the immune system to fight infections.
With good levels of vitamin D, you can expect fewer colds, 'flu, and other
unwelcome opportunists (including Swineflu). Also not only does Vitamin D
enhance your immunity, but it inhibits the development of destructive
auto-immune diseases such as diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, lupus and multiple
sclerosis. As an added benefit it is a major inhibitor of cancer, and part of
this effect may be attributed to the increased vigilance of the immune system
Treating Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) - Seasonal affective disorder (SAD)
is a form of depression that occurs during the winter months, possibly due to
reduced exposure to sunlight. This condition is often treated with photo
(light) therapy. In one study, a dose of 100,000 IU of vitamin D was found to
be superior to light therapy in the treatment of SAD after one month.
Healthy Bones - Without sufficient vitamin D, calcium absorption
cannot be maximized which leads to increased bone resorption, which may weaken
bones and increase the risk of fracture. Vitamin D supplementation has been
demonstrated to slow bone loss and reduce fracture, particularly when taken
with calcium.
Anti-inflammatory - Chronic inflammation is coming into prominent focus
as a cause of many disease processes, including major killers such as heart
disease and cancer. Vitamin D is a powerful anti-inflammatory agent, which may
also contribute to its effectiveness in reducing some types of muscular pain.
Regulating Blood Sugar Levels - Optimum levels of vitamin D
protect against diabetes (both type 1 and type 2), insulin resistance and
hyperglycaemia. Diabetes is usually associated with very low levels of vitamin
D. The pancreas also needs sufficient vitamin D in order to make and secrete
insulin. Getting enough vitamin D helps blood sugar control. It may also help
prevent serious diabetic complications.
Lowering Blood Pressure - Maintaining adequate levels of
vitamin D helps reduce the risk of hypertension. And optimum levels actually
tend to reduce blood pressure in hypertensive people.
Regulate Gut Flora - Vitamin D plays a key role in how gut flora
maintain the digestive system, Researchers at the University of Rochester
Medical Center in New York say this is a new understanding how good microbes in
the human digestive tract keep bad bacteria in check. Without enough vitamin
D3, there is more inflammation and less ability to fight infection. Vitamin D
is key to fighting off invading bacteria such as Salmonella by keeping
inflammatory molecules from activating other inflammatory molecules. And the
active form of vitamin D, D3 has been shown to inhibit the development of
autoimmune diseases, including inflammatory bowel disease.
Prostate Cancer - There is preliminary evidence based on laboratory
and limited human studies that high-dose vitamin D may be beneficial in the
treatment of prostate cancer. This area is under active investigation, but
clear evidence of benefits is not yet available.
Recommended Daily Allowance
The recommended daily allowance (RDA) of 200iu of vitamin D3 per day
offers increased protection against all of the above. Spending a few hours per
week in the sunshine with only light sunscreen will provide all the Vitamin D3
you need through the natural absorption of ultraviolet rays. If sun exposure is
not an option, supplement your diet with Vitamin D3 capsules.
Remember
Vitamin D supplements can interact with several medicines such as heart
medications and drugs for high blood pressure. Make sure you talk to your
doctor if you take any medication before taking a vitamin D supplement
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