Supports healthy blood sugar levels within the normal range

The ability of vitamin D to support healthy blood sugar levels within the normal range is tied closely to how it boosts calcium levels inside the bloodstream. Studies have shown that calcium is vital for insulin secretion, and since vitamin D promotes the body’s ability to absorb calcium, it is effective at supporting healthy blood sugar levels.

Promotes heart health

Mounting evidence suggests that getting the proper amount of the “sunshine vitamin” is beneficial to heart health. Studies have shown that vitamin D deficiency is a common risk factor for various heart health concerns. This is why many believe that ensuring that you’re getting enough vitamin D in your diet or taking a vitamin D supplement is necessary to keep your heart happy and healthy.

Helps the body regulate hormones

Vitamin D has an effect on hormonal secretion from your parathyroid glands, which secrete the parathyroid hormone into the body. Parathyroid hormone helps the body absorb calcium. Vitamin D also affects the pituitary gland, which is responsible for releasing a wide range of hormones. Finally, vitamin D can be used to promote estrogen balance within the body.

How is vitamin D used?

Along with vitamins A, E and K, vitamin D is fat-soluble, meaning that it is absorbed in the lymph, secreted into the blood and can be stored within fatty tissues and the liver. Vitamin D is used by the body for many purposes but is most useful in boosting calcium absorption, which promotes healthy bones and teeth.

Often Paired With...

Calcium – Because vitamin D helps boost calcium absorption within the body, vitamin D and calcium are an excellent pair.

Vitamin D Food Sources

Aside from the vitamin D we get from the sun, there are many foods that boast high amounts of “the sunshine vitamin.” Fish, such as herring, catfish and salmon, provide some of the the highest levels of vitamin D among food sources, delivering 2,061 IU, 1,053 IU and 920 IU respectively per 200 calorie serving. Eggs, raw milk and mushrooms are also sources of vitamin D, though in significantly lower amounts than fish.

Recommended Reading