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Vitamin D: Facts vs. Myths

Many people believe that vitamin D is almost a cure-all. However, recent research proves that some properties of this vitamin are greatly exaggerated.

Dr. Anna

Nutritional biochemist

Facts

Promotes calcium absorption The main purpose of vitamin D is to maintain bone health because it participates in phosphorus-calcium metabolism and improves calcium absorption in the intestine. At normal levels of vitamin D, 25-Hydroxy, calcium absorption is 30-40 %.

Prevents depression Vitamin D is involved in the synthesis of serotonin and dopamine, which affect our mood. If there is a lack of vitamin D, these hormones are not produced in sufficient quantities and the risk of depression increases.

Improves the immune system Vitamin D promotes the synthesis of antimicrobial peptides in the epithelial cells of the respiratory system that help neutralize the flu and acute viral infections. The active form of vitamin D (calcitriol) reduces pro-inflammatory cytokines and protects immune cells from death.

Reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease Vitamin D is essential for carbohydrate and fat metabolism. The higher its level in the body, the lower ===the level of bad cholesterol. In addition, vitamin D helps normalize blood pressure. All of this is an excellent prevention of heart disease.

Helps fight some types of cancer Vitamin D prevents the uncontrolled reproduction of cancer cells, which is characteristic of cancer. It slows down their division and proliferation and promotes their death. It is true that so far the preventive effect of vitamin D has been proven only for some kinds of cancer (colon, breast, and prostate).

Increases libido Vitamin D is a prohormone from which vital hormones such as sex hormones are synthesized. Therefore, taking vitamin D supplements improves reproductive function and promotes sexual activity in both women and men.

Normal blood levels of vitamin D: 30-80 ng/ml

Myths

Makes people lose weight There is currently no conclusive evidence for a direct link between vitamin D levels and weight loss or gain.

Low levels lead to diabetes Although type 2 diabetes is associated with low vitamin D levels, research shows that taking supplements does not reduce A1C levels (an indicator mainly used to monitor impaired glucose metabolism). Therefore low vitamin D levels are not the cause, but the consequence of the disease.

If you spend a lot of time in the sun, you don't need supplements Vitamin D is produced by sunlight. Its highest levels are between 11 a. m. and 2 p. m. when ultraviolet rays are most intense. If you are usually inside during these hours, it is not unreasonable to check your vitamin levels.

The more the better Excess vitamin D is toxic and leads to an increased concentration of calcium in the body. Side effects of intoxication can include nausea, vomiting, frequent urination, emotional agitation, weakness, bone pain, and kidney diseases failure. This happens rarely, but when it does it is likely due to taking too many vitamin D supplements.

The benefits of vitamin D are undeniable, but you should not decide on your own whether to take supplements. If you think you might be deficient in vitamin D, you should contact a specialist who will select the dosage and adjust your diet. And it is best to monitor the level of vitamin D in the dynamics. The easiest way to do this is with the Ornament, where all the data will be at your fingertips and in perfect order.

03 July 2023

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