Most people are aware that Vitamin D is important for building and maintaining strong bones, but Vitamin D is important for so many other things within the body. Today, I am going to focus on highlighting some of those “other” things Vitamin D does for us.

While your body can make it naturally when sunlight hits your skin, many people don’t get enough Vitamin D, especially if they spend most of their time indoors or consistently use sunscreen when outdoors (which I definitely recommend for skin cancer prevention).

If you don’t know your Vitamin D level, you may want to have it tested. You can do this next time you get lab work or come see us at Hale Center Clinical Pharmacy, and we can get you tested as well. Sometimes your Vitamin D level is considered “normal,” but it is still below optimal. Optimal is somewhere between 40-70 ng/ml.

“Other” Important Roles of Vitamin D:

Supports Your Immune System

Your body’s immune cells have Vitamin D receptors, meaning they rely on it to function properly. Adequate Vitamin D helps your body fight off infections and reduces the severity of illnesses.

Mood and Mental Health Benefits

Research suggests that Vitamin D plays a role in regulating mood and warding off depression. Low levels have been linked to seasonal affective disorder (SAD), a type of depression that occurs during darker months.

Muscle Function

Vitamin D supports muscle function in the body. Maintaining healthy levels can improve muscle strength and reduce the risk of falls, especially in older adults. It may even help with balance.

Heart Health

Vitamin D contributes to cardiovascular health, and low levels can be associated with cardiovascular events like heart attach or stroke, particularly in people who are at high risk or already have cardiovascular disease. Optimal levels of Vitamin D can reduce overall cardiovascular risk.

How Do You Raise Your Vitamin D Level?

• Sun Exposure: As much as 10–20 minutes of midday sun several times per week (without burning).
• Dietary Sources: Fatty fish (salmon, mackerel, sardines), egg yolks, fortified dairy (think Vitamin D Milk), and mushrooms.
• Supplements: Consider supplementation if your levels are low — I would love to help you pick the right Vitamin D for your needs. Adding Vitamin K2 with D3 can help make sure that the calcium Vitamin D is helping your absorb goes into the bones rather than into your arteries or soft tissues.