Most of us are aware that we produce Vitamin D through exposure to sunlight.  During winter even the strong New Zealand sunlight isn't enough to generate adequate Vitamin D and consequently studies show at least 40% of us have insufficient levels of this important vitamin, while 3- 4% are clinically deficient. 

People in residential care facilities are particularly at risk.   Also those taking statin drugs prescribed to lower cholesterol levels can experience vitamin D deficiency, as we need adequate cholesterol to naturally synthesise vitamin D in the body.

Vitamin D is well known to improve bone strength and reduce the risk of fractures.  Recent research is showing many other benefits of maintaining optimum Vitamin D levels.  Prevention and treatment of cancers, diabetes, depression, fibromyalgia, heart disease and flu as well as improving weight loss in overweight people and promoting fertility are all well researched as potential benefits of increasing Vitamin D intake to optimum levels.

There are two forms of Vitamin D supplement:  D2 and D3.  D3 (Cholecalciferol) is the safest and most effective form of supplementation.

View the range of Vitamin D3 supplements available to order online at discount prices from HealthPost.

 

References:

http://www.accessmylibrary.com/article-1G1-156366456/vitamin-d-deficiency-australia.html

http://www.theglobeandmail.com/life/health/doctors-start-to-include-vitamin-d-in-fight-against-cancer/article1352956/

http://circ.ahajournals.org/cgi/content/short/117/4/503 (cardiovascular disease)

http://infertility.suite101.com/article.cfm/vitamin_d_deficency_and_infertility

http://www.cholesterol-and-health.com/Vitamin-D.html#cholesterol

http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/153669.php (weight loss)

http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/51913.php (flu prevention)

http://naturalmedicine.suite101.com/article.cfm/vitamin-d-fibromyalgia-anxiety--depression

http://www.sciencelearn.org.nz/Contexts/You-Me-and-UV/NZ-Research/Measuring-Vitamin-D-levels  

http://www.accessmylibrary.com/coms2/summary_0286-9443822_ITM