Vitamin D, also known as ‘the sunshine vitamin’, is produced by our body when exposed to sunlight.

It is one of the most crucial vitamins, supporting a multitude of bodily functions.
There are also a variety of environmental considerations to supplementing, for example, people who live in low sun-exposure countries.

What are some benefits of vitamin D?

Supporting muscles and bones.

Vitamin D helps our body to regulate both phosphorus and calcium. This is important for the growth of our bones and helps to keep them healthy and strong. Research also indicates that vitamin D can help to keep our muscles strong, by supporting cell growth and protein synthesis.[1]

Boosting our immune system

Vitamin D can help fight against disease, protecting our immune system.
Research shows that vitamin D is closely associated with helping autoimmune disorders, including rheumatoid arthritis and multiple sclerosis.[2] It may also help chronic conditions such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and cancers; the vitamin has been shown to reduce inflammation.[3]

Regulating mood

Studies have found a link between adequate levels of vitamin D and significant improvements in mood disorders such as depression, SAD, anxiety, and OCD. [4]

Who should take vitamin D?

If you lack exposure to sunshine, feel tired, or feel weakness or pain in your muscles and bones, supplementing with vitamin D might be your answer! Deficiencies should always be diagnosed by a qualified health professional.

[1] Laird E, Ward M, McSorley E, Strain JJ, Wallace J. Vitamin D and bone health: potential mechanisms. Nutrients. 2010;2(7):693-724. doi:10.3390/nu2070693

[2] Aranow C. Vitamin D and the immune system. J Investig Med. 2011;59(6):881-886. doi:10.2310/JIM.0b013e31821b8755

[3] Wang H, Chen W, Li D, et al. Vitamin D and Chronic Diseases. Aging Dis. 2017;8(3):346-353. Published 2017 May 2. doi:10.14336/AD.2016.1021

[4] Penckofer S, Kouba J, Byrn M, Estwing Ferrans C. Vitamin D and depression: where is all the sunshine?. Issues Ment Health Nurs. 2010;31(6):385-393. doi:10.3109/01612840903437657