Vitamin D has been on the news a lot lately as its importance to our health is becoming more and more apparent.  New research suggests that we need much more than previously thought. Although it has long been suggested by the USDA that 400 IU (international units) was adequate, current wisdom suggests 1000 IU per day is what most people may need for optimal health in order to live longer and live healthier.

What is it anyway?

Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin (primarily Vitamin D2 or Vitamin D3) that is naturally present in only a few foods, added to others, and available as a dietary supplement.  It is also synthesized by our skin during sun exposure but then must be converted by the liver and then the kidneys before utilization by the body.   Because of this mechanism it acts more like a hormone than a typical vitamin. Regardless of how we get it, it is essential for ongoing optimal health.

Why is it important?

Vitamin D is important in several ways:

• Essential for promoting calcium absorption in the intestines
• Necessary for bone growth.  Without sufficient vitamin D,   bones can become thin, brittle, or misshapen
• Prevents rickets in children
• Helps prevent osteoporosis in adults
• Important in immune function
• Helps reduce inflammation

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