Vitamin D is a fat-soluble nutrient that is produced within the body when the sun’s ultraviolet rays come in contact with the skin. The rays are first absorbed, and then converted into calcitrol by the liver and kidneys. “Calcitrol”…doesn’t that sound a bit like “calcium?” What a coincidence, vitamin D is essential for calcium absorption. That’s right, you may think you’re building strong bones and preventing osteoporosis with a calcium-rich diet, but none of that matters unless you get enough vitamin D for the synthesis process to take place. This can be problematic, since it isn’t found in very many natural food sources. Vitamin D not only promotes the absorption of calcium, but also maintains adequate serum and phosphate levels, which allow for proper bone
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mineralization. The bone benefits don’t stop there. Vitamin D is a catalyst for normal bone growth as well as regeneration processes. Adequate vitamin D levels also aid with cell growth, promote healthy immune and neuromuscular function, and work to reduce inflammation. Vitamin D deficiency can result in rickets for children, osteomacalcia for adults, and osteoporosis in elders. 40 Photo courtesy of freedigitalphotos.net