Vitamin D3 - The health benefits
Immune System
Vitamin D contributes to the normal function of the immune system:- Reduced risk of respiratory infections such as the cold and flu.
- Early research suggests a correlation between vitamin D and a reduced risk of the body developing certain types of cancer.
- Helps activate the body's natural response to fight disease.
- May help fight development of autoimmune diseases.
Bones
Vitamin D contributes to the maintenance of normal bones.- Helps regulate the amount of calcium and phosphate in the body, important for maintaining healthy bones.
- Increases level of calcium absorption in the body.
- Deficiency can lead to bone deformities such as rickets in children.
- Deficiency can cause bone pain and bone abnormalities such as soft bones (osteomalacia) or fragile bones (osteoporosis).
Muscles
Vitamin D contributes to the maintenance of normal muscle function.
- Helps to optimise muscle strength.
- Regulates neuromuscular functioning.
- Impacts protein synthesis.
- Deficiency may increase risk of muscle wasting.
Cell Division
Vitamin D plays a role in the process of cell division.- Plays a major role in the life cycle of human cells.
- Regulates the ability of cells to control molecules that can damage DNA or proteins.
Teeth
Vitamin D contributes to the maintenance of normal teeth.- Plays an important role in the absorption of calcium and phosphate, which are the main components of tooth enamel.
- Deficiency may increase the risk of underdeveloped teeth, tooth decay and gum disease.
Blood Calcium Levels
Vitamin D contributes to normal blood calcium levels.- Helps to absorb calcium in the intestines.
- Helps to reclaim calcium that would be excreted through the kidneys.
- Plays a role in the mineralisation of bone.
- Maintenance of blood calcium levels within a narrow range is vital for normal functioning of all cells in the body, including the nervous system, as well as for bone growth and maintenance of bone density.
Psychological Function
Vitamin D contributes to psychological wellbeing:- Studies have shown a link between Vitamin D deficiency and the development of seasonal affective disorder (SAD)/seasonal depression.
- Plays a role in regulating mood.
Prenatal Health
Vitamin D is a vital nutrient for the development of a healthy baby.- Research suggests that pregnant women who are deficient in vitamin D are at greater risk of developing preeclampsia and needing a cesarean section.
- Deficiency can lead to higher levels of estrogen which can decrease fertility.
- Permanent teeth form in the twentieth week of pregnancy. If the mother’s vitamin D and calcium levels are deficient when this development is taking place, the teeth don’t form normally.
Other Benefits
Vitamin D has several important functions throughout the body and many other potential benefits:- Has effects on lung development and structure, respiratory muscle strength, inflammation and immune response to respiratory pathogens
- Helps to stimulate production of insulin.
- Studies show link between adequate levels of vitamin D and normal blood pressure.
Note: The contents of the Omvits site are for informational purposes only and not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.