Many Americans are deficient in vitamin D3, a fat-soluble vitamin. Vitamin D3 can be obtained naturally through exposure to sunlight, fortified milk and cereals, dairy products, and some fish, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. You can also take Vitamin D3 as as supplement, which should first be discussed with your family doctor.
Osteoporosis Prevention
Osteoporosis is a disease common in the elderly where the bone mass levels are low and deterioration of bone tissue increases bone fragility and the risk of bone fractures. More than 40 million adults in the United States have or are at risk of developing osteoporosis, states the National Institutes of Health. Vitamin D3 can prevent osteoporosis from occurring by allowing for adequate intake of the absorption of calcium. Adequate storage levels of vitamin D can also maintain bone strength and help prevent osteoporosis in older adults. Before taking vitamin D3 for osteoporosis, talk with your doctor about dosage and risks involved.
Cancer Prevention
Vitamin D3 may play a direct role in preventing cancer, says The National Institutes of Health. It can ward off the formation of colon, prostate, and breast cancers. Further research is needed to determine whether vitamin D inadequacy increases cancer risk and if supplementation with vitamin D 3 can prevent cancer in patients with a family history. Speak with you physician if you have questions about cancer and vitamin D3.
Calcium Absorption
The University of Maryland Medical center explains that vitamin D3 helps the body absorb calcium and keeps the right amount of calcium and phosphorus in the blood. Because vitamin D aids in the absorption of calcium, intake on a regular basis can form and maintain strong bones. This is important for bone growth, recovery, and the elderly as bone mass decreases with age. If you are struggling with calcium absorption speak with your doctor about vitamin D3 deficiency.
Rickets Prevention
Rickets develops in children with vitamin D deficiency due to a vitamin D-deficient diet and a lack of sunlight. This may also occur in adults called osteomalacia. Side effects of rickets and osteomalacia include bone pain, muscle weakness, and soft bones. Vitamin D3 plays a role in preventing rickets, and supplementation as well as fortified food intake should be discussed with your family doctor.
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