One of the MOST important things for one's health is getting
enough vitamin D, and regardless of what is said - sunlight is
STILL the best option...
Most of us have grown up to the reminder that Vitamin D and sunshine exposure
are important things that provide good health. For some reason, there is a serious
problem of vitamin D deficiency in areas with lots of sun, such as Nevada in the
USA. The problem also exists in places where sunshine is not as common, such as
parts of the UK. One likely cause of not enough sunshine is the response to warnings
about sunburn and skin damage when we allow too much absorption of UV rays.
Instead of soaking up the sun, we are covering exposed areas and slathering ourselves
with sunscreen.
Knowing the actual benefits can lead to the decision to acquire enough vitamin D
and sunshine exposure for good health, or at least help direct people there. Having
already determined the importance of the vitamin, such as how it helps build strong
bones, why is there a problem? Again, we spend less time outdoors, and when the sun
delivers the best UV radiation (UV-B), we are usually indoors working or eating lunch. A
few of the things likely prevented with this valuable vitamin are diabetes, osteoporosis,
and certain types of cancer. The possibility of avoiding these ailments is certainly a good
reason to provide our body with enough of the vitamin.
All mammals need vitamin D and they all have the ability to synthesize it from cholesterol and the proper amount of exposure to the sun. It is also available in some foods, such as cod liver oil, egg yolks, and liver. It is not easy to convince the family to partake of those things, with the exception of eggs. Fortifying milk with the vitamin supplements other sources. The following breakdown shows how the body spreads the vitamin:
The liver converts vitamin D to calcidiol.
The kidneys convert a portion of calcidiol to calcitriol The calcitriol enters the bloodstream. Once it is in the bloodstream, it regulates phosphate and calcium. It also promotes the growth of healthy bones.
Are supplements the answer to resolving the problem of vitamin D deficiency? It is always best to check with your doctor first to be sure no problems will arise. There have been cases of toxic poisoning when people have taken too much of the vitamin. Your doctor can order a blood test to see if you or anyone else in your family is deficient. Read how much is provided in foods that you eat and look for a supplement that makes up the difference. Knowing how simple it is to get enough vitamin D and what the benefits are when your system has enough points the way to the right decision. Read up on the virtues of sun derived Vitamin D here http://www.ajcn.org/content/79/3/362.full