Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin, which means that your body stores reserves of this vitamin for use as needed. Your body manufactures this vitamin from exposure to sunlight; however, it is also available from foods such as eggs, tuna, mackerel, salmon, cod liver oil and fortified dairy products. Vitamin D serves several important functions in the human body.
Bone Loss Prevention
Vitamin D is essential for the absorption of calcium from food sources and supplements, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Enhanced absorption of calcium may help to prevent osteoporosis, a condition characterized by gradual loss of bone density. This may help to reduce the frequency of bone fractures. Calcium absorption also aids in the proper formation of bone during childhood and adolescence.
Immune System Function
Vitamin D may enhance your immune system. This vitamin aids in the production of white blood cells, which are necessary for destroying disease-causing microorganisms and toxins in your body, according to Phyllis Balch, author of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing." Vitamin D may also enhance production of interferon, a substance that helps to ward of bacterial, fungal and viral infections.
Phosphorus Absorption
Phosphorus is a trace mineral that works with calcium to maintain bone health. It aids in the manufacture of chemicals in your brain that reduce stress and anxiety. Phosphorus also helps your kidneys collect wastes from your bloodstream and flush them from your body through urine. Vitamin D may enhance your body's ability to absorb and use phosphorus from foods and supplements, according to Balch.
Considerations
Although vitamin D may provide health benefits, excessive consumption of this vitamin may be dangerous. Adults who consume more than 2,000 mg of vitamin D daily may experience symptoms such as appetite changes, fatigue, bone pain, constipation, diarrhea and nausea. Vitamin D may reduce the effectiveness of statins, which are prescription drugs used to lower blood cholesterol. Also, certain medications such as antacids, bile acid sequestrants and anti-seizure medications may lower vitamin D levels in your body.
References
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Phyllis A. Balch, C.N.C.; 2010
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Vitamin D
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