Vitamin D is produced by the human body in response to sun exposure. It can also be provided through different foods and supplements, however, Vitamin D3 which is the natural version from the sun is far superior to Vitamin D2 via a supplement. Vitamin D is essential as it offers several health benefits for the body so it’s vital to get some every day, and YES that means going outside on the cold Chicago winter days! Bundle up, it’ll be ok, trust us!
Protects From Certain Diseases
Vitamin D is known to reduce the risk of certain diseases, including heart disease. It also stimulates the pancreas and regulates the immune system. Vitamin D also reduces the chances of developing the flu and multiple sclerosis. There are many studies also popping up showing a strong correlation to having a Vitamin D deficiency and severe COVID19 symptoms.
Promotes Healthy Bones
Vitamin D plays a major role in the maintenance of the bones in the body through calcium. It also monitors the levels of phosphorus in the blood. These are important factors for keeping the bones healthy. Vitamin D helps in the absorption of calcium and prevents the chances of developing diseases such as osteoporosis.
Reduces Depression
According to a study, it has been proven that Vitamin D improves the mood and reduces the chances of developing depression. The study shows that people who suffered from depression were given Vitamin D. The results showed that the supplement reduced the symptoms of depression. Moreover, it has also been discovered that people who suffer from anxiety and depression have severe Vitamin D deficiencies. Even when you think in more simple terms, going outside WITHOUT checking your phone constantly, and just getting fresh air, always feels good and breaks up the monotony of looking at a screen all day!
Helps with Weight Loss
If you are trying to lose a few pounds, you should consider talking to your doctor about adding Vitamin D supplements to your diet plan. People who take daily Vitamin D supplements have been shown to lose weight quickly and more efficiently compared to those who don’t. This is because calcium and Vitamin D have the qualities of suppressing the appetite.
Healthy babies
A deficiency in Vitamin D can cause high blood pressure in children. A study showed that Vitamin D deficiency could cause stiffness in the arterial walls of children. It also increases the risk of allergic sensitization. Vitamin D helps to prevent these diseases and increases the chances of having a healthy infant. As the old mantra says, “kids go outside and play!!” There really IS science behind it!
Improves Oral Health
Vitamin D helps our body to absorb calcium and plays a vital role in maintaining oral health. It reduces the risk of tooth decay and developing gum disease. Thanks to its anti-inflammatory effects and bone metabolism, it can help maintain healthy teeth and gums.
Reduces the Risk of Cancer
There is growing evidence that vitamin D helps to reduce the risk of developing cancer. Taking Vitamin D supplements when getting natural sunlight is no an option, can decrease the growth of cancerous cells and stimulate the death of cancerous cells, thus, reducing tumor blood vessel formation.
CONCLUSION
Most people overlook the importance of going outside every day, in a responsible manner, to get their daily dose of Vitamin or consuming Vitamin D supplements. People living in cold climates far from the equator should especially consult with their doctors on whether adding daily Vitamin D supplementation is necessary and beneficial because exposure to the sun is significantly reduced in the long winter months.