Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin that is found in food and can also be made in your body after exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun. Sunshine is a significant source of vitamin D because UV rays from sunlight trigger vitamin D synthesis in the skin.

			Vitamin D exists in several forms, each with a different level of activity. Calciferol is the most active form of vitamin D. Other forms are relatively inactive in the body. The liver and kidney help convert vitamin D to its active hormone form. Once vitamin D is produced in the skin or consumed in food, it requires chemical conversion in the liver and kidney to form the physiologically active form of vitamin D.

			The major biologic function of vitamin D is to maintain normal blood levels of calcium and phosphorus. By promoting calcium absorption, vitamin D helps to form and maintain strong bones. Vitamin D also works in concert with a number of other vitamins, minerals, and hormones to promote bone mineralization.

			Researchers know that normal bone is constantly being remodeled, a process that describes the breakdown and rebuilding of bone. Without vitamin D, bones can become thin, brittle, or misshapen.

			Vitamin D sufficiency prevents rickets in children and osteomalacia in adults, two forms of skeletal diseases that weaken bones.

			Research also suggests that vitamin D may help maintain a healthy immune system and help regulate cell growth and differentiation, the process that determines what a cell is to become.

			A study by researchers at the University of California, San Diego (UCSD) School of Medicine shows that fluctuations in Vitamin D3 levels control the body’s innate immune response, affecting a skin wound’s ability to heal.

			Vitamin D3 helps to keep the immune system strong when taken in large enough amounts (2,000 IU daily), which is considered safe for anyone over 13 years of age.

			Supplemental Vitamin D must be in the form of cholecalciferol (D3) and/or fish liver oil.

			Take 4 TwinLab “Allergy D3,” 400 IU, and one fish liver oil cap containing 400 IU vitamin D and 10,000 IU vitamin A daily. (Note: If you are allergic to fish take 5 TwinLab “Allergy D3,” 400 IU capsules a day.)

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