The Crucial Role of Vitamin D in Bone Health: Vitamin D is Essential for Strong Bones
You may have heard calcium is good for bones but what about vitamin D? Without sufficient vitamin D, your body won’t be able to absorb enough calcium, causing bones to become weak and brittle. Let’s take a closer look at why this vitamin is essential for strong bones, no matter what your age.
How Vitamin D Helps Bone Health: Vitamin D is Essential for Strong Bones
Vitamin D works as a key to open up calcium absorption in your gut. Without it, much of the calcium you consume simply moves through your body without being used. This can result in:
- Soft bones in children (rickets)
- Weakened, brittle bones in adults (osteoporosis)
- Increased risk of fractures
Your body produces vitamin D when your skin is exposed to the sun, but not everyone gets enough particularly during winter or if you spend a lot of time indoors.
Where to Find Vitamin D?
- Sunlight
A mere 10-30 minutes of midday sun (no sunscreen) a few times a week makes your body create vitamin D.
- Food Sources
- Fatty fish (salmon, tuna)
- Egg yolks
- Fortified milk & cereals
- Supplements
If sun or food can’t provide enough, a vitamin D supplement can do the trick just ask your doctor first.
Who’s at Risk of Deficiency?
- Individuals with darker skin (melanin minimizes vitamin D production)
- Older adults (skin produces less vitamin D with age)
- Individuals who spend little time outdoors or always apply sunscreen
- Individuals with gastrointestinal disorders (such as Crohn’s disease)
Conclusion: Vitamin D is a bone superhero it makes sure your body utilizes calcium effectively in order to maintain your skeleton healthy. If you are not exposing yourself to sunlight or eating foods high in vitamin D, think about a supplement after talking it over with your physician. Your future self will appreciate those strong, fracture-free bones!
NOTE: – IT IS ALWAYS RECOMMENDED TO CONSULT YOUR HEALTH CARE PROFESSIONAL. ALL DATA SHARED HERE ARE FOR EDUCATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY.
