Vitamin D3: what is it, what the body needs it for

Vitamin D3 deficiency is almost ubiquitous. Especially in Europe, Norway, North America with long cold winters. During this period, there is not enough sunlight, and many people do not get this substance with food in sufficient quantities. How are these factors related to D3 deficiency? Why the body needs it.

What is vitamin D3

D3 used to be called a vitamin, but further research has shown that it is a vitamin-like hormone, which is why it has a special role in the entire body. Its other name is cholecalciferol. Under the influence of ultraviolet rays of the sun, it is synthesized in the human skin from the precursor substance cholesterol.

The peculiarity is that vitamin D3 is produced only when the skin is exposed to UV-B light waves. They do not go through the glass. Therefore, when a person sits near a window or in a car under sunlight, cholecalciferol is not formed. Even in countries where the weather is warm and clear almost year-round, there are D3 deficiencies.

Cholecalciferol also comes from animal products: butter, milk, eggs, fish oil, fatty fish meat, etc. In order to replenish the necessary amount of this hormone-like substance, one should consume a lot of such products. Few people can afford that.

For vitamin D3 to benefit the body, it is converted into a biologically active form in the liver and then in the kidneys. Therefore, it is not enough to get enough cholecalciferol. It is necessary to maintain proper operation of the liver and kidneys.

Why the body needs vitamin D3

We often hear that cholecalciferol is necessary for bones and ligaments to be strong and teeth to be healthy. However, vitamin D3 is involved in all the processes of the human body:

• regulates metabolism, participates in the absorption of carbohydrates, calcium, which is why it makes bones stronger;
• stimulates the production of insulin;
• participates in the reproductive, nervous and cardiovascular systems;
• regulates metabolic processes in cells;
• participates in the work of the kidneys;
• It is necessary for the activity of the brain, its cognitive function, memory, the formation of emotions, etc.

Vitamin D3 has anti-inflammatory and antiseptic effects. With a lack of cholecalciferol it is impossible to build muscle. Weight problems arise - excess or lack of weight.

It is especially important to monitor the amount of vitamin D3 in the body of pregnant women. It is important not only for the proper functioning of the body of the mother. The developing fetus needs enough cholecalciferol throughout pregnancy. It is necessary for the development of the nervous system and the child's musculoskeletal system. With a deficiency of D3 the baby can develop bone and joint disease, and many other disorders.

To compensate for the lack of vitamin D3, take cholecalciferol in the form of dietary supplements. Such products contain varying amounts of the substance. The correct dosage of D3 can be prescribed by your doctor after tests.