VITAMIN D

Vitamin D

www.bodywizepersonaltraining.com

Australia is well known for its abundance of sunshine. Hence, it is perhaps surprising that vitamin D deficiency is a common condition affecting a large proportion of Australians (Joshi et al 2010)

Commonly known as the SUNSHINE VITAMIN: Vitamin D is a group of fat-soluble secosteroids responsible for enhancing intestinal absorption of calcium and phosphate. In humans, the most important compounds in this group are vitamin D₃ (also known as Cholecalciferol  and vitamin D₂ ergocalciferol)).Cholecalciferol and ergocalciferol can be ingested from the diet and from supplements. The body can also synthesize vitamin D (specifically cholecalciferol) in the skin, from cholesterol, when sun exposure is adequate (hence its nickname, the ‘sunshine vitamin’).     These are the activated forms of vitamin D and have three main functions:

1. enhancing absorption of calcium and phosphate from the small intestine

2. inhibiting parathyroid hormone synthesis and secretion 

3. mineralising the bone matrix

In layman's terms,  Vitamin D is essential for strong bones, muscles plus essential for overall optimal health levels. It has been shown that Ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun is necessary for the production of vitamin D in the skin and is the best natural source of vitamin D.

Due to the fact that UV radiation from the sun is also the main cause of skin cancer, it is important to take a balanced approach to sun exposure. This is because it is sensible to make sure you get enough vitamin D, whilst minimising your skin cancer risk.

To boost your vitamin D levels when in the sun, expose at least your face, arms and hands, or equivalent area of skin. For vitamin D to be produced, your skin must not be covered with clothing.

Prolonged sun exposure will not increase vitamin D levels further, but will increase the risk of skin cancer. Solariums should never be used to boost vitamin D, as they emit dangerous levels of UV that increase the risk of skin cancer. 

Interestingly scientists have recently found that,  this vitamin, may also combat multiple sclerosis (MS) by blocking the migration of destructive immune cells to the brain. 

The findings may help explain anecdotal reports of the "sunshine vitamin" preventing or easing symptoms, say scientists. 

Adequate Vitamin D is essential for the immune system. It also has shown to be beneficial for the prevention of

• Diabetes (Type1 and Type 2)
• Various types of cancers (particularly colon cancer)
• Heart disease
• Mental health conditions (including schizophrenia)
• Worse outcomes in stroke
• Altered immunity and other autoimmune diseases.

The benefits of vitamin D greatly outweigh the major problems from its deficiencies. All bodywize group training and personal training you can achieve your health and fitness goals whilst getting your dose of vitamin D essential for your health because we train you in the beautiful outdoor settings of Sydney’s Northern Beaches and North Shore. 

For more information contact Lizzie on bodywizeaustralia@gmail.com