Vitamin D and Strong Healthy Bones

Vitamin D is a natural substance that typically is gathered by the body from exposure to the ultraviolet rays from the sun. When these sunlight rays hit the skin, they trigger a reaction that causes the creation of Vitamin D in the body. 

This vitamin D creation is helpful for promoting the absorption of calcium in the body, and for increasing the concentration of phosphorus in the body, which allows the body to mineralize bone and prevent too much calcium from forming. Optimal bone growth and prevention of the growth of osteoblasts and osteoclasts is also maintained due to the presence of Vitamin D in the body. 

Vitamin D serves other purposes as well, including helping to regulate the growth of cells in the body, and promoting immune function in the body. Still other studies suggest that vitamin D may be helpful for reducing inflammation in the body. Thus, individuals that suffer from certain types of bone diseases including arthritis, which triggers inflammation, may benefit from supplementation with vitamin D. Many cells in the body have receptors for vitamin D, and may benefit from vitamin D supplementation.

Vitamin D Deficiency

Despite daily exposure to sunlight, many people are actually deficient in vitamin D. This may be for various reasons, including application of daily UV protectant or sunscreen. Certain types of auto-immune conditions may also result in a deficiency of vitamin D. Vitamin D deficiency may result in bone disorders or immune conditions and muscle pain. If you suspect that you may have a vitamin D deficiency, a simple blood test can determine your vitamin D level. Supplementation with vitamin D may benefit your bone health and reduce your risk of illness associated with vitamin D deficiency. 

Certain conditions associated with vitamin D deficiency include rickets in young children and a condition known as osteomalacia in older adults.