Copy of Vitamin D3 - The health benefits
![Vitamin D contributes to the normal function of the immune system]()
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.
![Vitamin D contributes to the maintenance of normal bones]()
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).
![Vitamin D contributes to the maintenance of normal muscle function]()
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.
![Vitamin D3 has a role in the process of cell division]()
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.
![Vitamin D contributes to the maintenance of normal teeth.]()
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.
![Vitamin D contributes to normal blood calcium levels.]()
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.
![Vitamin D contributes to psychological wellbeing:]()
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.
![Vitamin D is a vital nutrient for the development of a healthy baby.]()
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.
![Vitamin D has several important functions throughout the body and many other potential benefits:]()
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.
