What is Vitamin D?
Vitamin D is a group of fat-soluble secosteroids responsible for increasing intestinal absorption of calcium, magnesium and phosphate and many other biological effects. In humans, the most important compounds in this group are vitamin D3₃ and vitamin D2.
Vitamin D3, commonly regarded as a Sunshine Vitamin, is produced by our skin, liver and kidneys upon exposure to UV-Rays from the sun. Vitamin D3 promotes bone health, regulates our blood pressure and lowers our risk of cardiovascular disease.
Why is Vitamin D3 Important?
Did you know 9 in 10 Singaporeans are Vitamin D deficient?
Chronic Vitamin D deficiency results in osteoporosis, osteomalacia, muscle weakness and instability increasing the risk of falling, especially in older adults.
Bone Health
Vitamin D encourages the absorption of calcium in our gut and promotes the regulation of our blood calcium level. This helps in facilitating the formation and strengthening of our teeth and bone mass, reducing our risk of bone loss, osteoporosis and fractures.
Reduction In The Risk Of Type II Diabetes
One million Singaporeans are projected to be at risk of developing diabetes by 2050; this means that 1 in every 3 Singaporeans will develop diabetes. Sufficient levels of Vitamin D lowers our risk of Type II Diabetes due to an improvement in blood sugar level and a decreased risk of insulin resistance.
Cognitive Disorders
Vitamin D plays a critical role in the development of the brain, the regulation of cognitive functions and the promotion of a healthy nervous system. Being deficient in Vitamin D can increase our risk of Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease and dementia.
Prevention of Auto Immune Diseases
When we suffer from an autoimmune disease, our immune system targets our healthy tissue rather than the harmful viruses invading our system. Vitamin D aids in the prevention of this “attack” on healthy tissue as it teaches our immune system to differentiate between our healthy cells and the disease-causing viruses. This can thereby lower our risk of autoimmune disease.
Symptoms Of Vitamin D Deficiency?
Why is Vitamin D Important?
Fatigue
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Depression
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Muscle Aches
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Insomia
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Low Immunity
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Hairloss
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Risk Factors of Vitamin D3 Deficiency
Remain Indoors For Prolonged Periods
Vitamin D is usually best obtain from UV-rays from the Sun. Remaining indoor for prolong periods
Diabetes
Studies have show Vitamin D is associated with insulin sensitivity and resistancy, and beta-cell functions.
Have Darker Skin Pigmentation
Dark skin absorbs less sunlight, so people with dark skin do not get as much vitamin D from sun exposure as do light-skinned people.
Have Diet Restriction (e.g. vegans)
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Have Medical Condition With Poor Food Absorption
Conditions such as GI disturbances, affect the body from absorbing nutrients / Vitamin D via food.