VITAMIN D3_ BETTER COGNITION, BONE STRENGTH, AND HEART HEALTH

1. VITAMIN D3: BETTER COGNITION, BONE STRENGTH, AND HEART HEALTH An estimated one billion people worldwide are deficient in vitamin D, also known as the sunshine vitamin. Created by skin’s exposure to sunlight, Vitamin D regulates calcium and phosphorus and prevents numbness and tingling in muscles and weak and brittle bones. several factors hamper the production of vitamin D, factors that include: ● Distance from Equator: More distance from equator means less UVB rays falling on skin. ● Skin Pigmentation: Melanin in your skin reduces the production of vitamin D. ● High Level of Pollution: Pollution particles can deflect the UVB rays and stop them from reaching your skin. ● Time of the year: During winters, the amount of UVB rays reaching to the surface of the earth decreases. Symptoms of vitamin D deficiency manifest over a long period of time. It is usually calcium deficiency that displays real symptoms. Symptoms of vitamin D deficiency include: ● Tiredness • Aches in muscles and bones • Numbness and Tingling • Stress Fractures (in legs, pelvis, and hips) • Osteoporosis (weak bones)

2. • Osteomalacia (soft bones) Table: Vitamin D Recommended Amount according to NIH Life Stage Vitamin D (IU/day) Vitamin D (mcg/d) Children and Teens 600 15 Adults, up to age 70 600 15 Adults, ages 71+ 800 20 Pregnant and Breastfeeding Women 600 15 Source:-immunity against Covid 19