Functions of vitamin D
Bone health and osteoporosis ‐ Vitamin D is very important for bone health. It’s essential for the absorption of calcium and phosphorus, which are vital for the normal mineralization of bone. Maintaining adequate vitamin D throughout life can help increase and maintain optimal bone density and reduce the risk of developing osteoporosis.
Muscle health ‐ Vitamin D maintains muscle strength and helps our muscles function efficiently. Vitamin D deficiency has been linked to muscle weakness and pain.
Overall health – Vitamin D is required for general cellular function in all cells of the body. It also helps regulate cell growth and cell differentiation, the process that determines what type of cell it will mature into.
To obtain enough vitamin D, it’s recommended that people with moderately fair skin expose their arms or equivalent size body area to the sun for 5‐10 minutes outside of the peak UV period on most days. Longer exposure times are required for those with darker skin. Eating foods such as fish, eggs and fortified milk may also add to the body’s daily intake. People who are unable to achieve adequate amounts of vitamin D from the sun for various reasons may require a vitamin D supplement.