The sunshine vitamin for healthy bones and hair
It is said that being out in the fresh air is good for the body and soul. A walk or a cup of tea on the balcony can actually contribute to your health: This is how you can counteract a vitamin D deficiency. According to studies, around 30 percent of adults in Germany have a vitamin D deficiency, which can have a negative impact on their health.
What is vitamin D?
Strictly speaking, there is no "one" vitamin D. Vitamin D is a group of fat-soluble vitamins from the secosteroids and is therefore one of the hormones. Vitamin D plays an essential role in regulating calcium levels in the blood, inbone formation
Vitamin D can also help regulate blood sugar levels. A lack of vitamin D can increase the risk of type 2 diabetes.
There is also evidence that vitamin D can reduce the risk of certain chronic diseases such as cancer, heart disease and depression.
How does the body absorb vitamin D?
The human body is able to produce vitamin D itself: around 90% of the daily vitamin D requirement is formed through the skin. It is enough to spend about five to 25 minutes a day in the sun - preferably with short sleeves. It is important to take care not to get sunburned or other sun-related damage. Vitamin D3 is produced by the UV-B radiation contained in sunlight. The body can store vitamin D3 in fatty tissue and create a reserve for less sunny days. However, this is sometimes difficult, especially in the cold season. The modern way of life in industrialized countries - more office work, less outdoor activities - can also prevent the body from absorbing enough vitamin D.
What symptoms indicate a vitamin D deficiency?
Vitamin D also plays an important role in the absorption of calcium. This in turn is important for strong bones and healthy teeth. Symptoms of a vitamin D deficiency in adulthood can therefore be increased bone loss (osteoporosis), hair loss or skin problems. Even the immune system cannot do without vitamin D - fatigue, exhaustion and an increased susceptibility to infections are the consequences of vitamin D deficiency. Migraines, mood swings and muscle pain can also occur.
It has not yet been scientifically proven whether winter depression is also a consequence of vitamin D deficiency.
Which group of people is particularly at risk?
In general, people who spend little time in the sun are more likely to develop vitamin D deficiency. This includes not only people with office jobs; people who have been ill and bedridden for a long time are also potentially at risk. In particular, pregnant and breastfeeding women, people with dark skin and older people should pay attention to their vitamin D balance. Because as we age, the body is less able to develop vitamin D.
According to the Robert Koch Institute (RKI), 30% of adults in Germany suffer from a vitamin D deficiency. Only around 38% manage to get enough vitamin D.
How can I get tested for vitamin D deficiency?
With our Covimedical Home Vitamin D Test you can easily check your vitamin D level in the blood. Find out more about our tests below.
Sources: Journal of Health Monitoring | 2/2016 | Vitamin D status (rki.en)
Nutritional supplements: risk of overdose | NDR.en - Guide - Consumer