-->

• Vitamin D is not considered a true vitamin, but a steroid hormone, due to its ability to be synthesized in the skin. It can be acquired through adequate exposure to sunlight, and through some foods and supplements. Vitamin D deficiency can cause osteoporosis and also cause rickets in children.

• Function

  Adequate vitamin D intake is important for the absorption of calcium required for strong bones and other needs of the body. Vitamin D also helps in the reduction of inflammation.

• Side Effects

  If you consume to much vitamin D it can cause the intestines to absorb to much calcium. This can cause high levels of calcium in the blood which can lead to a build up of calcium deposits in the heart and lungs. Kidney stones, vomiting, and muscle weakness can also be caused by too much vitamin D.

• Fast Facts

  1. Fat soluble vitamin
  2. Sources: Sun exposure, fortified foods, vitamin supplements
  3. Few foods are naturally rich in vitamin D
  4. Small amounts are found in cheese, beef liver and egg yolks and some mushrooms
  5. Fortified foods supply most Americans with vitamin D like milk
  6. Ready to eat breakfast cereals often contain vitamin D

• Recommended Daily Amount

  1. Birth to 13 year: 5 mcg
  2. 14-18 years: Men, 5 mcg women, 5 mcg
  3. 19-50 years: Men, 5 mcg women, 5 mcg
  4. 51-70 years: Men,10 mcg women, 10 mcg
  5. 71+ years: Men, 15 mcg women, 15 mcg

• Disclaimer

  The content in this page is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Please contact your doctor before taking Vitamin D.

• Related Mahalo Pages

  Calcium | Osteoporosis | Skin Cancer | Vitamin A | Vitamin B | Vitamin C | Vitamin E | Vitamin K | Milk | Vitamin B6 | Osteopenia | Skin Cancer Vaccine | How to Become a Nutritionist

Categories

• View History
• Discuss on the Message Board
• Embed this Page
• Share this page