What does science say about Vitamin D?
Scientific studies point to wider health benefits of maintaining sufficient vitamin D levels:
Bone health and osteoporosis prevention:
Vitamin D is crucial for regulating calcium balance in the body. A deficiency can lead to impaired bone mineralization and an increased risk of osteoporosis and fractures – especially in older adults. Combined with calcium, vitamin D has been shown to reduce the risk of hip fractures.
Immune support and infection protection:
Research has shown that adequate vitamin D levels may reduce the risk of respiratory infections such as colds and influenza. During the COVID-19 pandemic, interest grew in vitamin D’s role in immune response and its potential protective effect against severe illness.
Mental health and mood regulation:
There is growing evidence that vitamin D contributes to emotional well-being. Deficiency has been linked to a higher risk of depression, particularly during the darker winter months.
Muscle strength and fall prevention:
Among the elderly, vitamin D supplementation has been shown to improve muscle strength and reduce the risk of falls – an important factor in maintaining mobility and independence.
Sources:
Vitamin D Deficiency. New England Journal of Medicine.
Vitamin D supplementation to prevent acute respiratory infections. BMJ.
Effect of vitamin D on falls. JAMA.
Vitamin D deficiency and depression in adults. Nutrition.
Dietary Reference Intakes for Calcium and Vitamin D. Institute of Medicine.