Vitamin D is one of the most important vitamins for human health. It plays an important role in the absorption of calcium and phosphorus from the intestines, as well as in the exchange of these elements and bone calcification. Vitamin D exists in two forms: ergocalciferol and cholecalciferol, which correspond to vitamins D2 and D3, respectively.
Ergocalciferol (vitamin D2) is formed in plants when ergosterol is irradiated with ultraviolet rays. Vitamin D2 is found in a number of foods such as mushrooms, liver and fish oil. Cholecalciferol (vitamin D3) is formed in human skin under the influence of ultraviolet rays on 7-dehydrocholesterol, which is widespread in the skin. It is also found in fish oil and animal liver.
Vitamin D deficiency can occur due to insufficient dietary intake or insufficient sun exposure. This can lead to bone decalcification, as well as the development of rickets and osteomalacia. Osteomalacia is a condition in which the bones become soft and misshapen, which can lead to weakened muscles and painful bones.
The recommended daily intake of vitamin D for children under five years of age is 10 micrograms, and for children over five years of age and adults it is 2.5 micrograms. Vitamin D is toxic and should not be taken in too large doses. However, if the level of vitamin D in the body is insufficient, the doctor may recommend taking special medications containing this vitamin.
Vitamin D also plays an important role in the immune system, helping to fight infections and diseases. Some studies have shown that a lack of vitamin D may be associated with an increased risk of developing a number of diseases, such as diabetes, heart disease and cancer.
Overall, vitamin D is an essential nutrient that helps maintain healthy bones and the immune system. To get enough of this vitamin, you need to monitor your diet and pay attention to your level of exposure to sunlight. If you have questions about how to get enough vitamin D, ask your doctor or dietitian.
Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin that plays an important role in our body. It is involved in the absorption of calcium from the intestines and its metabolism, as well as in bone calcification. There are two forms of vitamin D: ergocalciferol and cholecalciferol. Ergocalciferol is formed in plants under the influence of ultraviolet rays, and cholecalciferol can be obtained from 7-dehydrocholesterol, which is found in the skin when exposed to sunlight.
Vitamin D deficiency can lead to bone decalcification and the development of rickets or osteomalacia in children. To maintain optimal vitamin D levels, it is recommended to consume foods rich in this vitamin, such as fish oil and liver. Additionally, sun exposure can help the body get enough vitamin D.
Vitamin D has many other important functions in the body, including regulating the immune system, skin and bone health, and supporting heart and vascular health. Therefore, it is important to monitor your levels of this vitamin and get it from food or sunlight if possible.
Vitamin D plays an important role in maintaining human health and the balance of its biochemical processes. In addition, vitamin D has a wide range of actions in the body: promotes bone calcification and strengthening; regulates phosphorus metabolism; has antimicrobial and antifungal activity: promotes the normal functioning of the immune system. Thus, it becomes clear why vitamin D deficiency causes serious problems in the body.
Vitamin D can be obtained from food in the form of ergocalcipherol (ergosterol) and dehydrocholesterol. A chemical change during the biosynthesis process turns the first option