The Importance Of Vitamin D
The sunshine vitamin. Do you know which one it is? If you guessed vitamin D, you’re right. Vitamin D is highly important for maintaining a healthy
Vitamin D3 molecule structure
body – and the best place to get it is from the sun.
Vitamin D is essential for a range of metabolic processes, as well as preventing osteoporosis, heart disease and osteomalacia (softening of the bones, making them misshapen – known as rickets in children). Vitamin D may also be useful in helping to prevent the development of some cancers, in particular, breast, testicular and colon cancer. Furthermore, it is known to assist the body in absorbing phosphorus and calcium. If this wasn’t impressive enough, vitamin D is also important in warding off depression, and a recent study has found that it may also positively affect personality disorders and post-traumatic stress disorder.
This essential vitamin is produced when a compound in the skin (7-dehydrocholesterol, to be precise) is exposed to UV at the high end of the spectrum. Whilst we have all heard the slip-slop-slap message, a few minutes of sunlight a day, outside of the danger zone of 10am and 2pm is all you need to maintain your quota of vitamin D. Vitamin D can also be found in some foods, such as egg yolks, liver, some fish (think salmon, mackerel and sardines) as well as some butter and margarines – but the sun is by far the most effective source.
Most people would expect that given the outdoorsy nature of the Australian lifestyle, a vitamin D deficiency wouldn’t really be an issue. However, it is estimated that even after summer, 30% of Australians will have a vitamin D deficiency, and after winter that figure would have increased to 40%. It’s important to note that some people are more susceptible to a vitamin D deficiency than others though, such as those who work long hours (ie at work before the sun comes up and not leaving until after sunset), as well as those who live in the colder states, and those who have darker skin. People with darker skin may experience a vitamin D deficiency because their bodies have increased levels of melanin (which protect it from UV rays) – so they cannot make enough vitamin D.
Getting the right amount of vitamin D is important to maintaining a healthy, happy body and mind – and who doesn’t love a few minutes enjoying the warmth of the sun? Next time you’re feeling like you need a break, leave the office for a few minutes to get your vitamin D quota for the day – your body (and mind) will thank you for it.
GNC LiveWell is the world’s largest retailer specializing in vitamins online, protein supplements, herbs, weight management and sports nutrition. Established in Pittsburgh, USA by David Shakarian in 1935, GNC now has over 6000 stores in 49 countries.
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