The importance of vitamin D: Q&A session with an endocrinologist for Vitamin D Day 2017
Written by:Vitamin D deficiency is a problem throughout the world, with research suggesting that at least one-third of the world is vitamin D deficient. This deficiency is often accounted to people living a more indoor lifestyle nowadays, and not getting the right amount of sunlight. We learn more about the importance of vitamin D, as part of Vitamin D Day 2017, with the help of top consultant endocrinologist, Professor Gordana Prelevic.
What is vitamin D?
Vitamin D is a steroid hormone precursor that is produced by the chemical reaction between ultraviolet light rays, and the cholesterol in the skin. The vitamin D is activated in the kidneys and liver to become an active hormone.
What are good sources of vitamin D?
The main source of vitamin D is the sun. During the summer, if you are in the sun for short periods each day, you will get the amount of vitamin D you need. However, between September and March, we may not get enough. Vitamin D can be found in the following food sources:
- Fish and fish oils (fish such as salmon, sardines, mackerel and tuna are good sources of vitamin D).
- Egg yolks
- Liver
- Red meat
Although it is very important to use sunscreen in direct sunlight, the regular use of high factor sunscreens can hinder the production of vitamin D. Latitude, skin pigmentation and age also affect the production of vitamin D.
Why is vitamin D needed?
Vitamin D is very important to many aspects of human health. Vitamin D has a role in the regulation of cell growth, bone formation, immune function, muscle strength, hair growth, fighting infection, reducing the risk of autoimmune disease, and even possible protection from certain cancers.
Vitamin D deficiency is associated with stunting the growth of children, and rickets, a bone development problem. It leads to an increased risk of osteoporosis and osteomalacia in adults.
Modern research suggests that vitamin D deficiency also makes some diseases more severe. Diseases such as heart disease, respiratory disease, multiple sclerosis and lupus are worsened by a lack of vitamin D.
Why is vitamin D deficiency becoming a problem?
Vitamin D deficiency is becoming a worldwide problem as a result of reduced sun exposure and inadequate consumption from diet and supplements. People are spending more time indoors, and not getting the right amount of sunlight needed to develop vitamin D.
How do I get enough vitamin D?
Other than moving to a sunny country, the best way of making sure you get enough vitamin D, is making sure you spend some time in the sunshine when you can.
Eating the foods rich in vitamin D also helps build up the levels.
In the absence of sun exposure, you can take vitamin D supplements which will make sure you have enough vitamin D in your system. In this part of the world, it is advisable that adults take 1000 iu of vitamin D daily during winter months.
If you are worried about your vitamin D levels, make an appointment with a specialist.
