When you step into the sunlight, you may not realise it, but your body is silently working its magic. And that’s thanks to vitamin D – the ‘sunshine vitamin’ that’s actually a hormone. So, here are the key benefits for your well-being.
It helps strength teeth and bones
One of the main benefits of vitamin D is that it helps absorb and regulate calcium, the primary building block of your skeleton. A diet rich in calcium, boosted by appropriate vitamin D levels, helps keep your bones and teeth healthy.
However, there can also be too much of a good thing: a 2019 study found that “very high doses of vitamin D don’t provide further benefits for bone health and may actually have a harmful effect.” Experts recommend sticking to moderate amounts, and always following the advice of your doctor.
It boosts your immune system
Have you ever wondered why people tend to get sick more often during the colder months? One reason, according to research, could be that we’re less exposed to sunlight and have lower levels of vitamin D, which have been associated with a higher chance of getting a cold and flu. This is because vitamin D stimulates the production of T-cells, a type of white blood cell that helps our immune system fight germs and protect you from disease.
It helps prevent certain cancers
We know that too much sun is not good for our skin, but the right amount of vitamin D (whether from the sun or other sources) can be a potential deterrent against certain cancers – like bowel cancer and bladder cancer. Researchers have found that people living closer to the equator, where levels of sunlight exposure are relatively high, were less likely to develop certain cancers than people living at northern or southern latitudes.
It may improve brain function
The human brain remains one of nature’s most profound enigmas. Yet, research has started to uncover the crucial role of vitamin D in this space. As it turns out, vitamin D helps foster nerve growth, douses inflammation in neural tissues, and ensures sharper, more agile thought processes.
It helps improve your mood
Ever felt the winter blues? Here’s another reason to get outside and enjoy those sunny days (with sunscreen, of course). As we said, reduced sunshine in colder months often aligns plummeting vitamin D levels, which in turn leads to Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD).
Vitamin D, on the other hand, influences the levels of serotonin in the brain, a hormone that regulates the mood. So, ensuring you get some sun exposure or take supplements could boost your mood.
The bottom line
Whether it’s through a walk under the sun, a plateful of salmon, or a physician-recommended supplement, embracing vitamin D can help you feel healthier and happier all year round. Like to add more vitamin D to your diet? Check out this handy page on the Ministry of Health’s website.
Disclaimer: Please note that the content provided in this article is intended as an overview and as general information only. While care is taken to ensure accuracy and reliability, the information provided is subject to continuous change and may not reflect current developments or address your situation. Before making any decisions based on the information provided in this article, please use your discretion and seek independent guidance.