Vitamin D for prevention, is it worth taking?

Under the influence of the sun, the human body begins to produce its own vitamin D (calciferol), more commonly known as the “sunshine vitamin.” Many people associate taking this micronutrient with improving the condition of the musculoskeletal system, but it also has extremely important functions such as: improving general well-being, maintaining long-term performance, normalizing the immune system, stimulating hair growth, and improving the absorption of calcium and phosphates.

Cases when vitamin D can be beneficial

Checking your vitamin D levels is necessary for symptoms ranging from depression to gastrointestinal disorders, frequent fractures, colds, loss of appetite, and insomnia. In the early stages of deficiency, symptoms are very similar to stress.

The level of this trace element in the body is affected by:

1. Geographical zone. In northern latitudes, winters are long, so the population is especially in need of this nutrient.
2. Age, after 65 years of age the body produces only 25% of the dose required by the body.
3. Weight, if a person is obese, they will not have enough of this vitamin in their blood, because it will accumulate in fat.
4. With long-term illnesses, such as intestinal or liver diseases, the process of nutrient absorption is disrupted.

The following categories are at risk for calciferol deficiency:

1. Pregnant and postmenopausal women.
2. Elderly people.
3. People who have kidney problems, gastrointestinal problems, or malabsorption.
4. Athletes who use steroids.
5. Women and men who suffer from obesity.

Benefits of consuming biologically active compounds, namely calciferol:

1. Regulates the absorption of calcium and phosphorus.
2. Improves the immune system, reduces the likelihood of colds, asthma, and respiratory diseases.
3. Useful for gynecological diseases, polycystic ovary syndrome.
4. Improves the condition of gums, teeth, and muscles.
5. Accelerates recovery after fractures.
6. Improves the functioning of the cardiovascular system, normalizes blood pressure and the condition of the arteries.
7. One of the elements that affects blood clotting.

Walking for 15-20 minutes in the sun, including fatty fish, butter, cheeses, and beef in the diet will be an excellent method of preventing a deficiency of this microelement.

When not to take vitamin D

Any drug should be taken only after laboratory blood tests and professional advice from a doctor, as calciferol is contraindicated when:

1. There is an increase in calcium.
2. Stomach and duodenal ulcer.
3. For kidney and liver diseases.
4. Tuberculosis.
5. Heart defects, ischemic disease.

Myths about when vitamin D helps

According to research, vitamin D does not prevent the development of:

1. Oncological diseases.
2. Depressive states.
3. Fragile bones for people over 50 years old.