With the arrival of winter, the days get shorter, sun exposure decreases and vitamin D intake tends to fall. World Vitamin D Day is celebrated on 2 November, but did you know that vitamin D is essential for much more than just bone health? This vital nutrient plays a crucial role in strengthening the immune system and improving mood. Want to know more about this? Join us and read below an article that RC REDOL has prepared for you!
Many people are unaware that they may not be getting enough vitamin D, but do you know where vitamin D comes from?
Vitamin D₃ is produced in your skin. When your skin is exposed to ultraviolet B radiation, a chemical called 7-dehydrocholesterol is ‘photolysed’ and transformed into previtamin D₃. This process takes place in the outermost layer of the skin, called the epidermis. Previtamin D₃ is then converted into vitamin D₃ and ‘ejected’ into the extracellular space. From here, vitamin D₃ binds to a protein that transports it throughout the body, taking it to the liver. Vitamin D₃ can be taken as a supplement and is also found in small quantities in some foods, natural or fortified. Vitamin D₂ is available as a supplement and can be found in foods such as irradiated mushrooms or fortified foods. When consumed in food or as a supplement, vitamin D is absorbed in the intestine and then collected by the transport protein to be sent to the liver.
Lack of sun exposure can also impair vitamin D production. Ideally, the body gets all the vitamin D it needs through regular exposure of the skin to the sun. However, time spent indoors, the use of sunscreen and the winter months can limit the body’s ability to obtain adequate vitamin D from the sun. Without supplements, it’s quite difficult to get enough vitamin D from food alone.
What are the symptoms of vitamin D deficiency?
Some people can be deficient in vitamin D without showing any symptoms. Symptoms can include tiredness and generalised aches and pains. In a severe case, you may experience bone pain and muscle weakness, making it difficult to move around and increasing the frequency of infections. If you suspect vitamin D deficiency, consult a doctor or take a blood test.
Vitamin D deficiency is associated with health problems. One example is Osteoporosis, a condition in which loss of bone mass makes bones fragile and susceptible to fractures. Vitamin D is necessary for the absorption of calcium, which is essential for healthy bones. Studies suggest that vitamin D can reduce bone loss, but not cure osteoporosis. In addition, adequate levels of vitamin D may be associated with a reduced risk of developing type II diabetes, a condition that affects blood sugar management. Although vitamin D does not replace other treatments for diabetes, it can help control some symptoms. Studies indicate that vitamin D deficiency is common in patients with depression too, and the administration of high doses of vitamin D can alleviate depressive symptoms. Finally, there is a relationship between vitamin D and brain function. Research is underway to explore whether vitamin D deficiency can affect the development of dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease.
Due to its multifaceted importance, it is crucial to ensure an adequate intake of vitamin D. In the pharmaceutical sector, this could represent a growth opportunity in the supplement market. RC REDOL can help introduce food supplements to your market, smoothing the way for a successful product in your portfolio.
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