Vitamin D Roles

Vitamin D is fat soluble so that it can be stored in the body and also produced by exposure to sunlight. This production occurs through a chemical reaction of the sun with various skin oils, which is then absorbed into the body. The primary function of vitamin D is for bone growth, repair, and hardening though the absorption of minerals such as calcium, magnesium, iron, zinc, and phosphorus. It also treats post-operative muscle contraction, promotes normal growth and development of children, and is necessary for the health of bones and teeth. Other uses include regular kidney function, and helping the body assimilate vitamin A.

Vitamin D Foods

Vitamin D is common in fortified milk and dairy products, especially butter. It is also found in cod-liver oil, herring, mackerel, salmon, sardines, and tuna.

Vitamin D Deficiency

Things that contribute to vitamin D deficiency include little exposure to sunlight and living in highly polluted areas. The most common symptom of deficiency is rickets, a childhood disease characterized by bent or bowed legs, malformations of joint or bones, late tooth development, or weak muscles. The adult form is called Osteomalacia, and is characterized by pain in the ribs, brittle bones, and muscle weakness.