Despite the natural geographical conditions that allow for abundant sunshine, vitamin D deficiency remains a common health problem in Australia. In fact, large portions of the Australian population suffer from vitamin D deficiency.
Vitamin D is unique when compared to other essential vitamins mainly because of how our bodies naturally manufacture the D vitamin from nothing but enough exposure to sunlight.
When it comes down to it, vitamin D is important to the body mainly in 2 fundamental ways. First, vitamin D plays an active role in regulating the absorption of calcium and phosphorous into the bones. Second, vitamin D allows for a more efficient cell-to-cell communication in the body.
Apart from the abovementioned fundamental functions, vitamin D also allows for proper neuromuscular function, immune function, and alleviation of inflammation.
Vitamin D Deficiency
Vitamin D deficiency causes a wide range of general health anomalies, among the most common of which is osteomalacia in adults. Osteomalacia is the deteriorative softening of the bones that typically results from inadequate absorption of calcium and phosphorous.
Among the most telling symptoms of osteomalacia include diffuse body pain, persisting muscle weakness, and chronic fragility of bones. In children who develop this condition, osteomalacia is referred to as rickets.
Other health consequences of vitamin D deficiency include weakened immune system, cardiovascular disease, increased cancer risk, sarcopenia, diabetes, multiple sclerosis, osteoarthritis, epilepsy, and cognitive function.
Sources Of Vitamin D
Exposure to sunlight is easily the main source of vitamin D. More specifically, the body naturally manufactures vitamin D when the skin is exposed to sunlight. Because of this vitamin D is typically referred to as the sunshine vitamin.
In addition to sun exposure, vitamin D can readily be consumed in fish, fortified cereals, oysters, caviar, fortified soy products, salami, ham, and sausages, fortified dairy products, and even eggs.
Chiropractor In Canberra
While traditionally focused on correcting spinal misalignments that compromise the otherwise optimal relationship between the mind and the body, chiropractors are also experts when it comes to assessing the nutritional needs of their patients.
For further nutritional advice, consult with your local Chiropractor In Canberra at Canberra Spine Centre. Contact your local Chiropractor In Canbera at (02) 6267 9400. Or simply book an appointment online.