2nd November – World Vitamin D Day
On the 2nd of November we celebrate World Vitamin D Day. The initiative aims to raise awareness among the general public of the great importance of the so-called “sunshine vitamin” for health.
Also known as calciferol, it is a fat-soluble steroid hormone that is involved in a number of vital processes taking place in the human body. It regulates calcium-phosphorus metabolism and helps maintain optimal levels of these elements in the body. Its main function is to ensure the normal growth, development and strengthening of the bone structure of children and to protect them against the occurrence of rickets. It is also important for the prevention of osteoporosis in middle-aged people. It has a beneficial effect on the condition of the muscles, preventing the development of osteomalacia (softening of the bones). It plays an important role in the prevention and treatment of many diseases, including diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, some oncological and infectious diseases, multiple sclerosis, etc. It strengthens the immune system, suppresses autoimmune processes and has anti-inflammatory effects. It is necessary for the functioning of the thyroid gland, normal blood clotting, the regulation of arterial pressure, cardiac activity and much more.
Vitamin D is the only vitamin that the body can produce under the influence of sunlight. Its two most important forms are vitamin D3 and vitamin D2. The former accounts for about 80% of the total and is produced in the body when the skin is exposed to ultraviolet rays. Unfortunately, modern, increasingly sedentary lifestyles are associated with insufficient sun exposure and reduced physical activity. This, together with factors such as environmental pollution, ageing, etc., are among the main reasons why the percentage of the population affected by vitamin D deficiency worldwide is steadily increasing. This is compounded by the fact that deficiencies of this vitamin can go unrecognised for a long time. It is therefore important to pay attention to symptoms such as frequent illness, fatigue, insomnia, depression, burning in the mouth and throat, dry skin, slow wound healing, hair loss, crooked and brittle bones, loss of bone density, muscle pain, etc.
The second important form of vitamin D is vitamin D2. It is about 20% of the total and is supplied through foods and supplements. Some of its richest sources are dairy products, oily fish, eggs, liver and mushrooms.
Elderly people, those suffering from specific diseases with impaired body fat metabolism, overweight people, breastfed babies, dark-skinned people, people who are rarely exposed to the sun, etc. are at increased risk of vitamin D deficiency.
Both vitamin D deficiency and overdose can lead to serious health consequences. It is therefore advisable to find the balance. In case of suspicion of impaired calcium metabolism, bone fractures and deformities, reduced bone density, etc., it is advisable to consult a specialist, as well as a study of the level of vitamin D in the body. According to the result, the necessary therapy is appointed.
