Vitamin D is widely known to help absorb calcium which helps strengthen bones, but it has several other benefits, too.
There's been a lot of debate recently about what vitamin D can really do for your body, especially during the Covid-19 pandemic.
Therefore, we’ve gathered some of the benefits of vitamin D that you should know about:
It supports a healthy immune system
Vitamin D effectively maintains the health of your immune system by strengthening the cells that fight infections. According to a study published on PubMed.gov, Vitamin D can reduce your risk of getting the flu.
It helps build strong bones
Vitamin D helps your body absorb calcium. According to the MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopaedia, getting adequate calcium and vitamin D in your diet can help maintain bone strength and reduce the risk of developing osteoporosis.
It can promote healthy blood sugar levels
Sue Shapses, a professor of nutritional sciences at Rutgers University, told SELF that vitamin D stimulates the beta cells in your pancreas to secrete insulin, which is crucial for converting food into energy and regulating blood sugar levels.
It can help support a healthy pregnancy
According to the World Health Organization, vitamin D supplementation during pregnancy improves maternal vitamin D status, and may reduce the risk of pre-eclampsia (complications characterized by high blood pressure and affecting organs like the kidneys) , low birth weight and pre-term birth.
Below are some of the effective ways you can increase your vitamin D levels:
Spend time in the sunlight, take supplements, eat more mushrooms, include egg yolks in your diet, eat fortified foods, or consume more fatty fish and seafood.