Good absorption of Vitamin D and its benefits

Good absorption of the “sunshine vitamin” allows the body to absorb calcium, fight infections, and maintain proper functioning of the nervous system and muscles.

The importance of Vitamin D for bone health

Vitamin D is vital for bone health, so a lack of the vitamin can “weaken your joints and you may be at greater risk of stress fractures.”

Understanding stress fractures

What are stress fractures?

The Mayo Clinic confirms that stress fractures are small cracks in the bone. It often spreads to the weight-bearing bones of the lower leg and foot.

The role of Vitamin D in serotonin levels and immunity

Nutritionist Naomi Newman-Beinart said vitamin D deficiency may play a role in serotonin levels in the brain. She explained: “Serotonin is known as the happy hormone because it is important for maintaining your mood and well-being. Vitamin D is also important for human immunity, so a lack of vitamin D can weaken your immune defenses.”

In this regard, Dr. Newman-Beinart indicated that low vitamin D levels may be one of the reasons for the weakening of the immune system in the face of the severity of Covid-19 symptoms, stating that “a recent review of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that is gold standard of research have shown that vitamin D supplements lead to a reduced risk of death and a reduced risk of intensive care unit admission for people with Covid-19.”

But the NHS confirmed that “there is currently insufficient evidence to support taking vitamin D alone to prevent or treat Covid-19.”

The impact of sunlight and food on vitamin D absorption

The human body can produce vitamin D after the skin is exposed to sunlight, but many people may not get enough daylight, especially in winter, meaning they may suffer from vitamin D deficiency.

How you absorb vitamin D depends on whether you get it from food or sunlight.

If you have trouble absorbing the sunshine vitamin, try eating fatty foods and/or foods rich in magnesium.

Because vitamin D is fat-soluble, taking it with fatty foods can help the body absorb and store it for later use.

Sources of vitamin D

Food sources of vitamin D include:

• Oily fish (tuna, mackerel, salmon)
• Eggs
• Dairy products (milk and cheese)
• Vitamin-enriched foods (cereals, bread, juices)
• Mushrooms

“People who do not eat these foods and are not regularly exposed to sunlight may benefit from considering taking a vitamin D supplement,” Dr. Newman-Beinart said.

Source: Express