Check out the below report on the importance of keeping up Vitamin D intake from our resident pharmacy expert at LIV.
Vitamin D is essential for strong bones, muscles and overall health. It is often known as the “sunshine vitamin” because ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun in moderation helps produce vitamin D in the skin as a natural source. It is a fat-soluble vitamin in a family of compounds that includes D-1, D-2, and D-3 that helps control calcium levels in the blood.
It is important to note high levels of exposure to UV will not increase your vitamin D levels but instead increase the risk of developing sunburn and skin cancer.
Essential for bone and muscle development, the resistance of certain diseases, and for preventing osteoporosis, vitamin D deficiency may not result in any obvious symptoms but can increase a persons risk of musculoskeletal conditions such as: bone and muscle pain, rickets in children and osteopenia for older Australians.
Those at higher risk of low vitamin D are more likely to be people with naturally very dark skin, people with little or no sun exposure and those with medical conditions or medications affecting vitamin D metabolism.
Aside from building strong bones, vitamin D also regulates the immune system and neuromuscular system playing a role in the life cycle of human cells.
Researchers at the Institute of Medicine (IOM) and the U.S. Preventative Services Task Force (USPSTF), recommend 600 international units (IU) are enough for most healthy adults and that higher doses of vitamin D don’t necessarily produce additional health benefits.
Here at LIV we know loads of brands and formulations in the health market but recently a new, affordable brand has become available.We’re fans of Oviit, which also contains Calcium, important for the formation of healthy bones, and the combined Oviit Calcium 600 Plus Vitamin D and Minerals which contains Magnesium, Zinc, Manganese and Copper for additional support.
But don’t forget, if you are concerned that you or your child may be at risk of vitamin D deficiency, you should discuss with your doctor or pharmacist.