Why is vitamin D needed?
Vitamin D production is triggered in the skin by UVB rays from the sun. Vitamin D is often talked about, but why is it so important to get enough of it? Vitamin D is a key factor in calcium absorption and thus affects bone health. Additionally, vitamin D supports the immune system and has many other benefits for various reactions in the body.
Vitamin D needs are individual
Some people naturally have more circulating vitamin D in their blood than others, which allows them to better utilize the benefits of vitamin D. Vitamin D supplements also increase blood levels of vitamin D more in these individuals than in others.
In some cases, however, the body’s ability to utilize vitamin D may be impaired. This can lead to vitamin D deficiency. Obesity and diabetes have been found to explain vitamin D deficiency. In such cases, the body cannot utilize vitamin D in the normal way. Severe deficiency increases the risk of upper respiratory infections, among other things. If the body cannot properly utilize vitamin D, supplementation is necessary.
Vitamin D may even protect against severe forms of COVID-19
It has been observed that normal levels of vitamin D can protect against severe forms of COVID-19. It is believed that vitamin D helps regulate the body’s immune system by preventing overactivation. Ensuring adequate vitamin D intake seems to be linked to lower morbidity and a reduction in mild inflammatory markers.
This is good news for Finns, as our vitamin D levels and intake are generally at a good level, according to the Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare’s FinRavinto 2017 study. Additionally, Finns are well aware of the need for sufficient vitamin D intake.
(Vitamin D treatment may alleviate COVID-19. Duodecim Health Portal, March 7, 2022)