From infancy to old age, Vitamin D is important for good health.  The normal level of Vitamin D3 in adults is considered to be between 30-100 ng/ml.  Vitamin D, also known as the “Sunshine Vitamin,” is formed when our skin is exposed to sunlight.  It has an amazing array of health benefits - here are a few.

  1. Strengthens the bones - Vitamin D is essential for strong bones.  It facilitates calcium absorption from the gut as well as the deposition of both calcium and phosphorous in the bones. It slows down osteoporosis and reduces the rate of fractures and falls in the elderly. 
  2. Helps manage blood sugar levels and prevent diabetes - Children who get enough vitamin D during their first year of life are less likely to develop type 1 diabetes later in life.  The old Indian custom of massaging oil on the infant and exposing to sunlight definitely has long term benefits. In the case of type 2 diabetes, having adequate amount of Vitamin D in the body helps insulin work better, thus reducing the blood sugar. 
  3. Enhances the immunity - Vitamin D has been found to be protective against the development of some autoimmune diseases as well as infections in general. 
  4. Improves your mood - You will be surprised to learn that vitamin D can work as a mood enhancer. Furthermore, it can be used as part of the treatment of depression. A walk in the morning sunshine can lift your mood. 
  5. Helps with concentration, learning, and memory - Getting adequate exposure to sunlight reduces the risk of dementia 
  6. Reduces inflammation - Vitamin D has been proven to reduce the symptoms of inflammatory bowel disease and help prevent or lessen the frequency of asthma attacks in asthmatics. 
  7. Keeps your heart healthy - Vitamin D also improves the function of the arteries by preventing atherosclerosis. This is beneficial in those who have hypertension and those at risk of cardiovascular disease.

So step out into the sunlight more often. Get your daily requirement of vitamin D for better physical and mental health.