20 que s t ions WHAT IS VITAMIN D AND WHY DO WE NEED IT? Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin, which acts as a hormone in the body. We produce our own vitamin D from cholesterol through a process starting with the action of sunlight on our skin. We can obtain a small amount from food, however this form is less biologically active; most people only get about 5-10% of their vitamin D from food. Vitamin D plays a major role in regulating calcium and phosphate levels, and contributes to the health of bones, muscles, teeth and the immune system. There is some evidence adequate vitamin D can reduce the risk of multiple sclerosis and some types of cancer (e.g. colorectal cancer) and the risk of food allergies in infants - more research is underway in these areas. WHAT IS VITAMIN D DEFICIENCY? Deficiency is determined by measuring the levels of 25(OH)D in the blood; levels above 50nmol/L are considered adequate. D ABOUT VITAMIN Everything you've ever wanted to know about this essential vitamin. 1 2 pindaramagazine.com.au Pindara Magazine 69
Pindara Private Hospital Magazine - Issue Eight
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