VITAMIN D
What Is It?
- A fat-soluble vitamin, which means it best absorbs if you take it with avocado or some other source of healthy fat
- Created by the body when skin is exposed to sunlight, that is why it’s called “the sunshine vitamin”
- Other sources include fatty fish (like salmon), egg yolks, and fortified dairy products
How Does It Support Immune Health?
- Studies have shown a link between deficiency and impaired immune function†
- Has demonstrated an ability to improve the body’s defenses against infection†
- Helps regulate the immune system so that it reacts appropriately to genuine threats without becoming overactive and attacking the body’s own tissues†
Its Other Functions Are?
- Helps calcium build strong bones and teeth
- linked to cardiovascular well-being
- Low levels associated with an increased risk of type 2 diabetes†
- It plays a role in regulating the nervous system
What Supplemental Forms Are Best?
- Vitamin D3, unlike D2, is more effective in raising blood levels
- Available in strengths up to 5,000 IU and in a variety of forms—including tablets, soft gels, capsules, chewable and liquids
- Children’s formulations are also available
What Else Should I Know?
Lack of sun exposure due to people spending more time indoors has resulted in widespread suboptimal levels of vitamin D (one study found an overall US deficiency rate of more than 41%)
†The information provided is not an endorsement of any product and is intended for educational purposes only. NaturesPlus does not provide medical advice and does not offer a diagnosis of any conditions. Current research on this topic is not conclusive and further research may be needed in order to prove the benefits described.