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VITAMIN D
Vitamin D (calciferol) is a fat-soluble vitamin naturally found in some foods, added to others and is also available as a dietary supplement. It is also produced endogenously when ultraviolet (UV) rays from sunlight come into contact with the skin, triggering its synthesis.
Vitamin D obtained from sunlight exposure, foods, and supplements is biologically inert and must undergo two hydroxylations in the body to become activated.
Vitamin D promotes the absorption of calcium in the intestine and maintains adequate concentrations of calcium and phosphorus in the blood to enable normal bone mineralization and prevent hypocalcemia (involuntary muscle contractions leading to cramps and spasms). It is also needed for the development and restructuring of bones. Without sufficient vitamin D, bones can become thin, brittle, or deformed.
Adequate vitamin D prevents rickets in children and osteomalacia in adults. Together with calcium, vitamin D also helps protect the elderly from osteoporosis.
Vitamin D also plays other roles in the body, including reducing inflammation and regulating processes such as cellular growth, neuromuscular and immune function and glucose metabolism.
In foods and dietary supplements, vitamin D has two main forms: D2 (ergocalciferol) and D3 (cholecalciferol), which differ chemically only in their side chain structures. Both forms are well absorbed in the small intestine. The presence of dietary fat in the intestine enhances the absorption of vitamin D, but some vitamin D can still be absorbed even in the absence of dietary fat.
VITAMIN D deficiency
Vitamin D deficiency can result from inadequate dietary intake, poor absorption, or metabolic needs requiring higher amounts. If someone does not consume enough vitamin D and does not get sufficient exposure to ultraviolet sunlight for a prolonged period, they may develop deficiency. Individuals who cannot tolerate or do not consume milk, eggs, and fish, such as those with lactose intolerance or following a vegan diet, are at higher risk of vitamin D deficiency.
Other individuals at high risk of vitamin D deficiency include:
Conditions resulting from prolonged vitamin D deficiency include:
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