When you feel the sun's rays on your skin, know that your body is creating one of the most important vitamins - D3, which was discovered thanks to centuries of research. The discovery of vitamin D3 became one of the most significant medical achievements of the 20th century, saving millions of lives: It was the year 1650 and in the streets of London, doctors noticed that more and more children were suffering from a strange disease called rickets (their bones were weak and brittle, legs deformed, growth slowed). It wasn't until 1919 that Dr. Huldschinsky exposed children with rickets to ultraviolet light and their bones began to heal! Three years later, biochemist McCollum discovered a substance that prevented rickets and called it vitamin D. Gradually, the existence of the most important form of vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol) was discovered.
Today we know that vitamin D3 is important not only for bones but also for mood, heart, muscles, and overall health. Its deficiency is associated not only with rickets, but also with depression, weakened immunity, and other chronic diseases. Vitamin D3 is not just a 'vitamin', it is a hormone that our body produces when the skin is exposed to the sun. When there is little sun, its production decreases, and health problems appear. How does it benefit us? Strong bones and healthy muscles = Vitamin D3 helps the body absorb calcium and phosphorus, which is essential for strong bones and teeth. It helps protect teeth from demineralization, which can manifest as more frequent cavities. It supports bone repair and regrowth. Without it, bones would become brittle and break more easily. Its deficiency can lead to muscle weakness, osteoporosis, and joint pain. Immune support = Research has shown that vitamin D3 helps the body fight infections, respiratory diseases, including flu and colds. It increases the production of peptides that help defend against bacteria, viruses, and fungi and regulates inflammation. Its deficiency can increase the risk of autoimmune diseases. Good mood and sharp mind = Low levels of D3 and little sun are associated with depression, fatigue, irritability, and seasonal affective disorder, which is a form of winter depression. This vitamin supports the production of serotonin, the happiness hormone, which helps maintain mental well-being. It protects brain functions, reducing the risk of Alzheimer's disease. It supports the brain's ability to learn, organize memories, and adapt to changes (neuroplasticity). Remarkably, people with vitamin D deficiency may have a 75% higher likelihood of developing depression compared to those with normal D levels. Protection of heart and metabolism, skin = Studies indicate that sufficient vitamin D3 can reduce the risk of high blood pressure, diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and stroke. It supports the health of the endothelium (the layer of cells lining the blood vessels), which is crucial for proper blood flow. Support of muscle strength and performance = Athletes and active people can benefit from vitamin D3 because it helps in muscle recovery and improves physical performance. Studies suggest that sufficient levels can reduce the risk of muscle injuries and improve overall strength. It reduces the risk of many skin diseases, (psoriasis, eczema) the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles related to age by supporting skin renewal and repair. Evidence suggests that vitamin D supplementation may also reduce the risk of diabetes.
Where to get it from? The best source is the sun, but there are some interesting reasons why it may not be enough ... Sunscreen, although important for preventing skin cancer, reduces the production of vitamin D. Older people and people with dark skin are less able to produce vitamin D from the sun. UVB radiation does not penetrate glass, (or clothing) so exposure to sunlight indoors through a window does not produce vitamin D. In winter months above 35° latitude (such as here) there is too weak UVB radiation to produce enough vitamin D3. In the diet, it is found in fish (salmon, tuna, mackerel, trout) and cod liver oil are the best sources, smaller amounts are also in egg yolks.
In case of deficiency, it is therefore advisable to take vitamin D3 in capsules Dr. Lucullus. Remember that prevention is always better than cure. Give your body enough vitamin D and it will reward you with good health. For more energy, zest for life, and less pain, the 'sunshine vitamin' is essential for the body not only in winter but throughout the year. And what about you? Are you always full of energy, but as soon as winter comes, you feel more and more tired, weak, and unmotivated. Coffee or longer sleep doesn't help ... Are you missing vitamin D?
