Are you considering taking food supplements with vitamin D? It can certainly be a solution to make up for the lack of this vitamin in our organism. After all, an insufficient amount of this substance has a very negative impact on our health and well-being. Do you want to know more about it? Read on!
What is vitamin D and what is it for?
It is a fat-soluble substance that plays a vital role in the body. Unlike other vitamins that we obtain largely from food, vitamin D is produced mainly in the skin when it is exposed to sunlight. For this reason, it is often referred to as the “sunshine vitamin”. Sound familiar?
One of its best known functions is to contribute to bone health, as it plays an important role in the absorption of calcium and phosphorus, minerals essential for the formation and maintenance of strong bones. It is also crucial for the immune system, helping to fight infections and regulate inflammatory responses.
Another interesting aspect of vitamin D is its influence on emotional balance. Adequate levels of vitamin D have been found to be associated with improved mood, thereby reducing the risk of mood disorders such as depression. In fact, the International Society for Nutritional Psychiatry Research (ISNPR) states that it is possible to prevent and treat mental disorders through a quality diet supported by nutritional supplements.
Consequences of its absence
We have already seen how important vitamin D is. However, in modern society, we are faced with a worrying lack of this substance. As the pace of life accelerates and outdoor hours are reduced, exposure to the sun, the main natural source of vitamin D, has become insufficient for many individuals. Is this the case for you?
You should also be aware that other factors, such as geographic location, diet, skin pigmentation, use of certain medications and age, often influence the body’s ability to synthesize this vitamin. The result is an alarming silent epidemic marked by deficiency of this substance, with profound and often overlooked consequences. Here are its main dangers and symptoms:
- Bone weakening: Deficiency of this substance can lead to a decrease in bone mineralization, increasing the risk of bone weakening, osteoporosis and fractures. In the case of children it is even more serious, as it can cause what is known as rickets.
- Muscle problems: Some of the most common symptoms are fatigue, muscle weakness, joint pain and increased difficulty in moving. It also increases the risk of falls and fractures.
- Impact on mood: As we have seen, there is a connection between vitamin D deficiency and mood. Therefore, when levels are inadequate, problems with depression, mood disorders and anxiety symptoms often arise. If you notice that your mood is dropping for no apparent reason, this may be the cause.
- Immunological problems: Vitamin D deficiency causes a decrease in the function of immune cells. This situation increases the chances of contracting respiratory infections, such as colds and flus, as well as other much more serious ailments.
Ways to obtain vitamin D
Do you want to improve your vitamin D levels and start feeling better? If so, here are a few tips to help you do just that – take note!
- Increase your sun exposure: This activity helps the body synthesize the vitamin. However, remember that sun exposure is often harmful if you do not take appropriate protective measures.
- Diet: Although sun exposure is an important source of vitamin D, it can also be obtained through certain foods, such as fatty fish (salmon, mackerel, sardines), fortified dairy products, eggs and mushrooms.
- Dietary supplements: In some cases, physicians and other health professionals may be recommend them to cover a person’s daily needs. We speak, for example, of individuals with deficiency or difficulties in obtaining sufficient sun exposure or more risk of suffering vitamin D deficiency. The latter group includes celiac disease, overweight people, people with renal insufficiency and pregnant women, as well as sick people whose medications prevent assimilation.
Undoubtedly, vitamin D is essential to ensure bone health, proper functioning of the immune system and emotional balance. In this sense, ensuring adequate levels is fundamental to maintaining a healthy and optimally functioning body. This is where Phytogen medical foods dietary supplements come into play. Try OLIMINAFlex and discover what it can do for your well-being!
