Why We LOVE Vitamin D!

Vitamin D is often called the “sunshine vitamin” because our bodies can produce it when our skin is exposed to sunlight. But vitamin D is much more than a connection between sunshine and your skin.

It is an essential nutrient that helps your body absorb calcium and plays an important role in maintaining strong bones and teeth. Vitamin D also has other important functions in the body, which is why maintaining adequate vitamin D levels matters.

So, why do we love vitamin D? Let's take a closer look.

What is vitamin D?

Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin that helps your body absorb calcium and phosphorus—minerals that are essential for healthy bones and teeth.

Your body can produce vitamin D when ultraviolet B (UVB) radiation from sunlight reaches your skin. You can also get vitamin D from certain foods and, when needed, dietary supplements.

However, the amount of vitamin D your body produces from sunlight can vary considerably depending on factors such as skin pigmentation, age, location, season, clothing and how much skin is exposed.

1. Vitamin D supports strong bones

One of vitamin D's best-established roles is supporting bone health.

Your body needs vitamin D to absorb calcium effectively. Calcium is essential for maintaining strong bones, while vitamin D helps your body make use of the calcium you consume.

Getting enough vitamin D is therefore an important part of maintaining healthy bones throughout life.

2. Vitamin D supports healthy teeth

Because vitamin D helps with calcium absorption and mineral metabolism, it also contributes to maintaining healthy teeth.

A balanced diet containing vitamin D, calcium and other essential nutrients can help support overall bone and dental health.

3. Vitamin D plays a role in normal immune function

Vitamin D is also involved in the normal functioning of the immune system.

Research continues to investigate the relationship between vitamin D levels and immune health. However, having adequate vitamin D should not be viewed as a guarantee against infections or illness.

4. Your body can get vitamin D in more than one way

Sunlight is one source of vitamin D, but it isn't the only one.

Vitamin D can also be found in foods such as:

• Fatty fish, including salmon, tuna and trout
• Egg yolks
• Some types of cheese
• Foods and drinks fortified with vitamin D
• Vitamin D supplements

For people who don't get enough vitamin D through food and normal sources, a healthcare professional can advise whether supplementation may be appropriate.

5. You don't need to rely on tanning for vitamin D

This is an important distinction.

Although sunlight can trigger vitamin D production in the skin, deliberately increasing UV exposure is not considered a safe way to obtain vitamin D. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends getting vitamin D from food and, where appropriate, supplements rather than relying on sun exposure or indoor tanning.

UV exposure can damage the skin and increase the risk of skin cancer. That's why enjoying time outdoors and protecting your skin from excessive UV exposure should go hand in hand.

How much vitamin D do you need?

Vitamin D requirements can vary depending on age and individual circumstances.

The best way to determine whether you are getting enough vitamin D is to consider your diet, lifestyle and individual risk factors. If you are concerned about vitamin D deficiency, speak to your doctor, who can advise whether testing or supplementation is appropriate.

More vitamin D isn't necessarily better. Because vitamin D is fat-soluble, excessive supplementation can be harmful, so supplements should be taken according to appropriate guidance.

The bottom line

Vitamin D deserves its nickname as the “sunshine vitamin,” but you don't need to chase UV exposure to get its benefits.

Vitamin D helps your body absorb calcium and plays an important role in bone health. It can come from sunlight, food and supplements, depending on your individual needs.

So yes, we LOVE vitamin D—but we love healthy, informed choices even more.

Enjoy the sunshine, protect your skin and make sure you're getting the nutrients your body needs.

This article is for general information only and is not intended to provide medical advice. If you are concerned about vitamin D deficiency or whether you should take a supplement, speak with your doctor or other qualified healthcare professional.