What is vitamin D and what is it for?

Vitamin D is a nutrient necessary for health. It helps the body absorb calcium, one of the main substances necessary for strong bones. Additionally, the body lacks vitamin D for other functions. Muscles need it for movement and nerves need it to transmit messages between the brain and other parts of the body. Vitamin D is essential for the immune system.

The body produces vitamin D when bare skin is exposed to the sun. Most people get at least some vitamin D this way. However, clouds, smog, older age, and dark-colored skin reduce the amount of vitamin D produced by the skin.

Because our sources of vitamin D are food, the sun, and dietary supplements, one way to know if we are getting enough vitamin D is a blood test that measures the concentration of this vitamin. In the blood, it is measured in the form of vitamin D called 25-hydroxy vitamin D.

Studies are being carried out on vitamin D to better understand how it influences health, its deficiency can influence some diseases such as osteoporosis, with calcium, vitamin D helps prevent osteoporosis, a disease that causes bones to become thinner. and weak and more prone to fractures. It can also influence heart health, multiple sclerosis, among others, preventing symptoms from worsening or reappearing.

Among the indications, according to the literature, it should be done in:

Individuals with suspected vitamin D deficiency (for example those with osteoporosis, osteomalacia, or persistent, nonspecific musculoskeletal pain).

Individuals at increased risk of vitamin D deficiency (for example, pregnant, lactating, elderly, obese or housebound, and infants who are breast-feeding without vitamin D supplements or from mothers with vitamin D deficiency).

Individuals with disorders associated with reduced 25(OH)D levels.

Individuals who are being treated with vitamin D2 or vitamin D3 supplements.

Individuals with suspected toxicity (for example those with hypercalcemia).