Ever wonder why Vitamin D is called “the sunshine vitamin”? It’s because the body produces Vitamin D naturally when it’s directly exposed to sunlight. Spending a short amount of time in the sun can provide the body its Vitamin D needs for the entire day.
So when work shifted from offices to homes, therefore reducing our commute and our time spent under the sun, things started changing for our bodies. It might not be getting the same amount of Vitamin D like it used to. It also doesn’t help that Filipinos have a naturally brown or moreno complexion, hence reducing the body’s ability to absorb the ultraviolet radiation B (UVB) rays from the sun which is essential in Vitamin D production.
And if you’re Vitamin D deficient, then you’re at a higher risk of developing serious bone abnormalities, making them brittle and weak. So to prevent this from happening, why not take Vitamin D supplements? Below we discuss why they are a must-have in the new normal:
1. It strengthens our bones and muscles
Aside from being dubbed as the sunshine vitamin, Vitamin D is also popular for its bone-building benefits. To put it simply, Vitamin D promotes the absorption of calcium that our bones love so much. When paired together, it can help ward off bone diseases such as rickets in children, osteomalacia in adults, and osteoporosis in the elderly.
Simultaneously, Vitamin D is also known for its muscle strengthening benefits. It can help increase muscle strength, decreasing the risk of falls, which is a common problem for the elderly.
2. It can help boost immunity and fight inflammation
This factor is especially important for today’s COVID-19 outbreak. Vitamin D can help support the immune system by fighting off harmful bacteria and viruses. In fact, scientists are keen on its potential role in infection outcomes, however, more research still needs to be done.
3. It can help fight signs of depression
One shouldn’t forget about metal health, especially during this uncertain period of time. Vitamin D is important for healthy brain function, therefore inadequate nutrient levels may be instrumental in depression and other mental illnesses. Exposure to sunlight also encourages the release of the hormone serotonin, which is associated with mood-lifting benefits that can also help a person feel calm and focused.
There’s definitely no denying that Vitamin D is an essential nutrient that can help fortify bones and keep our muscles strong while also potentially lowering the risk of infections and mental illnesses for some individuals.
Until the quarantine is lifted, be prudent and take steps to get your recommended daily amount of Vitamin D through supplements and Vitamin D-rich foods such as fatty fish, egg yolks, cheese, fortified milk, and cereals. You may still get sunlight exposure, just remember to follow protocol. If you suspect that you are Vitamin D deficient, consult with your doctor about getting a blood test to check if your levels are adequate
SOURCES:
https://www.health.com/nutrition/vitamins-supplements/vitamin-d-benefits
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