Vitamin D Benefits for Bone Health and Immunity

Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin that plays a key role in bone health, immune function, and overall well-being. Adequate vitamin D levels are essential for calcium absorption and maintaining strong bones.

Vitamin D FAQ

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Why is vitamin D called vitamin D?

He called it vitamin D because he thought it was the fourth vitamin to be named. It was not initially realized that vitamin D can be synthesized by humans (in the skin) through exposure to UV light, and therefore is technically not a vitamin, but rather can be considered to be a hormone.

Is vitamin D a nutrient?

Vitamin D is both a nutrient we eat and a hormone our bodies make. It is a fat-soluble vitamin that has long been known to help the body absorb and retain calcium and phosphorus; both are critical for building bone. Also, laboratory studies show that vitamin D can reduce cancer cell growth, help control infections and reduce inflammation.

Why is vitamin D important?

Vitamin D helps regulate the amount of calcium and phosphate in the body. These nutrients are needed to keep bones, teeth and muscles healthy. A lack of vitamin D can lead to bone deformities such as rickets in children, and bone pain caused by a condition called osteomalacia in adults.

Where does vitamin D come from?

The body creates vitamin D from direct sunlight on the skin when outdoors. But between October and early March we do not make enough vitamin D from sunlight. Vitamin D is also found in a small number of foods. Another source of vitamin D is dietary supplements.