Vitamin D Introduction Function Sources

Vitamin D Introduction Function Sources

Vitamin D Introduction
The Vitamin D Introduction falls under the category of fat soluble vitamins. Its scientific name is cholecalciferol. Vitamin-D is an extremely important mineral which affects multiple systems of our body. It acts like a hormone in the body and every cell of human body is a receptor to it

Function of Vitamin D

So It is responsible for promoting the absorption of calcium, magnesium and phosphate from the intestines and is also responsible for other biological effects. It enables the body to use these compounds in the formation and strengthening of teeth and bones.

Sources of vitamin D

Only few foods are rich in vitamin D. Its major source is sunlight. Ultraviolet rays in sunlight can convert a natural substance (ergo sterol) in the skin to Vitamin D. If one is exposed to enough sunlight, it is not needed in the diet. One needs to keep in mind that Vitamin D is relatively resistant to heat and oxidation.
Vitamin D is found in fish liver oils (e.g. cod and halibut), egg yolk, milk and other dairy products.

Risk factors of vitamin deficiency

Multiple risk factors that might lead to its deficiency are less exposure to sunlight. That is why it is advise to get reasonable exposure to sunlight by the physicians. Old age people are more vulnerable to its deficiency. Moreover, having dark complexion increases the chances of vitamin-D deficiency. Obesity and sedentary lifestyle also makes one vulnerable to insufficient vitamin-D in the body. Lack of fish and dairy products in diet and living far from the equator where there is less sunlight are the major risk factors which might lead to vitamin-D deficiency.

Deficiency of Vitamin-D

It is said that around 1 billion people suffer to some extent by the deficiency of vitamin D. Usually people who live in hot and humid areas especially near the equator are less likely to suffer from its deficiency than those living in cold lands. The early signs and symptoms of vitamin-D deficiency are generally subtle and therefore, are difficult to recognize.
In Children: Even slight deficiency of vitamin-D in children leads to a deformation of teeth and tooth decay, whereas, it’s extreme deficiency leads to a condition call rickets. It is characterize by the poor teeth and bone formation. Usually bones become soft and pliant and therefore, can be easily bent under the body weight. Its deficiency also leads to other deformities such as bowed legs and knock knees.
In Adults: Extreme deficiency in adults leads to Osteomalacia which is also characterize by softening of bones.

Excess of vitamin D

Excessive vitamin-D in the body leads to demoralization of bones and calcification of multiple soft tissues including kidneys and lungs.
In case of any packed Vitamin-D containing food supplement must check orginal seal before buying. Now a days many cheeters selling expired food supplements so need to care. And if using for minor babies then also check proper and then start using.