More About Vitamin D

The sunshine vitamin

Vitamin D is referred to as a fat-soluble vitamin, but this nutrient is actually a group of fat-soluble secosteroids, which are natural substances similar to steroids but with a particular structural difference. Two of these secosteroids, cholecalciferol (vitamin D-3) and ergocalciferol (vitamin D-2), are important for our health.

There aren’t a lot of foods high in vitamin D. Our primary source of natural vitamin D, cholecalciferol, is actually synthesized by our bodies from cholesterol in sun-exposed skin, earning it the nickname “The Sunshine Vitamin”. Some dietary sources of vitamin D-3 are fatty fish and egg yolks.  The other relevant form of vitamin D, ergocalciferol, is found primarily in fungus, lichen and a few plants such as alfalfa. Both forms are beneficial for human health.

Vitamin D’s benefits

Vitamin D enhances intestinal absorption and metabolism of the dietary minerals calcium, magnesium, phosphate and zinc, and therefore plays a crucial role in skeletal health.* Low levels of vitamin D have been associated with low bone mineral density.*

Vitamin D also supports healthy immune system function, and recent research shows that it may play a role in normal cardiovascular function as well.*

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Now that you know what vitamin D can do for you, are you ready to get the best vitamin D supplement for your needs? NOW has you covered.