10 Reasons why vitamin D is essential for your health

( Natural News ) Vitamin D is often referred to as the “sunshine vitamin” because it’s synthesized in the skin after exposure to sunlight. While technically considered a hormone, vitamin D is paramount for optimal health . Unlike most other essential nutrients, vitamin D can only be found in a handful of foods such as fatty fish, certain mushrooms, eggs, and fortified foods, making the sun the most important source of vitamin D. These days, however, most of us tend to spend less time outdoors which may explain why more than a third of the world population suffers from low levels of vitamin D. Below you’ll find ten reasons why you should soak up some sun on a daily basis to protect your health. Improves muscle function Vitamin D deficiency has been linked to loss of muscle mass and strength. Scientists found that an active form of vitamin D in the blood (vitamin D3) could improve lower limb strength . Volunteers who participated in the study showed greater power and speed after vitamin D3 supplementation. Reduces the severity of asthma attacks When added to a usual asthma treatment, vitamin D may lower the risk of severe asthma attacks by half. Helps to prevent and treat Multiple Sclerosis Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune disease in which the body attacks its own brain, spinal cord, and optic nerves. Some studies, however, found that maintaining proper vitamin D levels may slow down the progression of the disease while lowering the risk by up to 62 percent. Improves heart health While taking vitamin D supplements doesn’t seem to have the same heart-protective effect as spending more time outdoors, adequate vitamin D in your blood may slash the risk of a heart attack or chronic heart failure. The power of the elements : […]

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