Vitamin D, a fat-soluble vitamin that is essential for optimal health may often be found in significant amounts only in a handful of foods that we eat.
However, vitamin D can also be made by the body when our skin is exposed to the sun and therefore it is considered to be a crucial hormone. Yet, various studies surprisingly show that over 40% of people are deficient in vitamin D.
There are numerous potential benefits from Vitamin D:
1. Improves Heart Health
Vitamin D may help improve the health of the heart and reduce the likelihood of heart attacks.
2. Helps Improve Bone Health
Vitamin D helps in the health of bones as it increases the absorption of calcium and phosphorus from food.
3. Increases Muscle Strength
Maintaining good levels of vitamin D may help increase muscle strength in all adults and possibly reduce the risk of falls and frailty in the elderly.
4. Reduces The Risk Of Diabetes
Adequate vitamin D levels may help reduce the risk of developing both type 1 and type 2 diabetes. In some cases, vitamin D supplements may also help improve blood sugar control in type 2 diabetics.
5. May Lower Risk Of Certain Cancers
Maintaining adequate vitamin D levels may have some benefits for preventing cancer especially through lifestyle choices such as healthy diet and regular physical activity, preferably outdoors.
6. Possibly Reduces The Risk of Premature Death
Vitamin D may help with longevity. Many studies have shown consistency between blood Vitamin D levels and the risk of premature death. It was found that people taking vitamin D supplements had a 6% lower risk of premature death. Thus, those who get enough vitamin D through the sun, their diet or supplements may be adding a few extra years to their life.
7. Diminishes Symptoms Of Depression
A study suggests Vitamin D increases the amount of serotonin in the brain, which is a known contributor to feelings of well-being and happiness. There are other reports that show low vitamin D levels may increase the likelihood of depression. Although it’s exact role in the development of depression is not fully understood, it may help prevent or reduce symptoms of depression, particularly in individuals with strong symptoms.
8. May Help Prevent and Treat Multiple Sclerosis
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune disease that involves the brain, spinal cord and optic nerves of the eyes. Studies show that individuals with MS who are able to maintain high vitamin D levels may slow down the progression of their disease.
Our next set of sessions for our Medically Supervised Weight Loss and Fitness Programs begin on 1st February 2017 onwards.
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