Vitamin D is the precursor for 1,25-dihydroxycholecalciferol, a potent hormone that promotes intestinal absorption of calcium and phosphorus.
Adequate levels of vitamin D are crucial for bone health in men and women. Individuals low in vitamin D have been shown more prone to fractures. Deficiency is especially common among the elderly. Recently updated nutritional guidelines recommend increased intake of vitamin D for protection from declining bone mineral density. Combining vitamin D with calcium has been shown to improve protection from osteoporosis and fracture over calcium alone.
A shortfall of vitamin D causes rickets and osteomalacia, and will weaken teeth and bones, especially in children.
Vitamin D helps prevent osteoporosis and secondary hyperparathyroidism.
Vitamin D has been shown to significantly reduce the risk of prostate cancer.
Recent research indicates that high normal levels of vitamin D provide protection from cancers of the breast, colon, ovary, as well as the prostate.
Other benefits of vitamin D supplementation include: prevention of osteoarthritis progression, multiple sclerosis, and hypertension.
Animal studies show that Vitamin D is important for immune function.
Recent reserach evidence suggests that vitamin D may not only prevent cancer, but also causes tumor regression.