Vitamin D, the sunshine vitamin, is produced by the skin after exposure to UV (ultraviolet) rays from the sun1. Although it can be obtained from dietary sources, it is no longer as abundant in an ordinary diet. Many people now have deficient levels of this crucial vitamin as our consumption of nutritionally empty foods grows and as our exposure to natural sunlight decreases. Vitamin D deficiencies can cause many health related issues, so the need for supplementation through other sources becomes vitally important.
Vitamin D’s main action is its amazing ability to regulate calcium metabolism, which in turn leads to a multitude of health-enhancing benefits2. In conjunction with specific vitamins and minerals, it also acts like a hormone to assist the mineralization of bones. As more research is conducted, Vitamin D reveals more of its previously hidden benefits. A recent study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition reveals that Vitamin D supplementation results may decrease cancer risk by 60 percent 3.
Vitamin D is now widely recognized for its benefits on our bones, especially in the critical development stages of bone strength and density. We make the most bone density gains in our youth, but maintaining that bone density throughout life is a great challenge, especially as Vitamin D deficiency increases. The bone matrix is formed with the assistance of a mineral complex; any deficiency in these minerals, especially calcium, can lead to bone loss or osteoporosis4. Vitamin D enhances the absorption of the mineral complex for bone development, which is essential for the maintenance of healthy teeth and the musculoskeletal system5.
The need for highly absorbable supplementation increases as we age, as our body’s natural ability to synthesize Vitamin D from the sun decreases significantly, as does our ability to absorb it through our digestive tract. In the elderly, Vitamin D deficiencies can impair muscle function and increase the chances of a stress fracture6 so regular activity combined with supplementation will improve bone density and limit bone loss 7.
Even athletes can be Vitamin D deficient, even if they follow a strict diet regimen. Physical stress and constant activity increase the demand for Vitamin D, and strenuous exercise can weaken bones if there aren’t sufficient levels of calcium circulating in the body. For calcium metabolism to take place at peak levels, Vitamin D is needed 8. Athletes would be wise to remember that the human body utilizes carbohydrates and fats, synthesizes protein, repairs muscle tissue more efficiently, and strengthens the immune system more effectively with Vitamin D 9.
Ingredients, Dosage and Direction
Other Ingredients:Soybean Oil USP, Carrageenan, Glycerin, USP, Starch NF, Purified Water, USP.
Suggested Use:Take one softgel daily with a meal. Keep bottle tightly closed. Store in a cool, dry place, out of reach of children. Do not use if imprinted seal under cap is broken or missing.