Vitamin D
Vitamin D is a type of vitamin that dissolves in fat, also called the name of the sun’s vitamin, because the body can make it from cholesterol when exposed to sufficient radiation from the sun. Perhaps the most important function of vitamin D in the body is to maintain the balance of minerals in it and Maintaining the balance of calcium and phosphorus levels in the body. Vitamin D is stored in the fatty organs of the human body. Despite the availability of sunlight in Asia and Africa, the prevalence of vitamin D deficiency in these areas is high, especially in women due to pregnancy and childbirth.
Benefits of Vitamin D
- It has a major role in the absorption of calcium and phosphorus and then stored in the bones.
- Stops cancer cells and limits their reproduction.
- Strengthens the immune system in the human body.
- Promotes the production of insulin in the body and increase its secretion.
- Regulates blood pressure and diabetes.
- The main factor for bone health and prevention of osteoporosis.
- Maintains the flexibility of blood vessels.
- Strengthen the muscles to be able to perform their functions.
- Maintain brain health which reduces Alzheimer’s disease.
- Prevents pregnancy poisoning.
Foods containing vitamin D
- eggs.
- Milk fortified.
- Fish of all kinds including tuna and sardines.
- Fish liver oil is the most important sources of vitamin D intake.
- Milk and dairy products.
- Exposure to sunlight for at least ten minutes a day, taking into account direct sunlight, between 11 am and 3 pm.
- Cheese.
- Liver lamb or calf.
- Mushrooms.
- Breakfast cereals.
- Soy milk.
- Orange juice.
Vitamin D deficiency
Reasons
- Smoking.
- Obesity.
- Do not be exposed to sunlight.
Symptoms
- Chronic fatigue.
- Pain in different organs of the body.
- Muscle weakness and cramping.
- Osteoporosis especially in women.
- Infection of rickets in children.
- Arthritis or multiple sclerosis.
- Increased heart disease and progression.
- Hypertension.
- Heart attacks.
- Cold and chronic cold.
Treatment
The treatment of vitamin D deficiency is done by exposure to the sun every day for at least ten to fifteen minutes and preferably in the morning, in addition to the excessive intake of foods rich in vitamin D, which we mentioned above, and can prescribe a doctor containing vitamin D or Injecting the patient with vitamin D injection
Most people who are at risk of vitamin D deficiency are elderly people who have low sun exposure, as well as breastfed women with cystic fibrosis or those with inflammatory bowel disease.