1. Vitamin D lowers risk for cold and flu

While many respiratory infections (including the common cold, laryngitis, tonsillitis, bronchitis, and pneumonia) are mild, they can pose a great health risk if someone has an underlying health condition or weakened immune system. According to one study, vitamin D supplementation can help reduce the risk of acute respiratory tract infections like colds and influenza.

2. Vitamin D helps maintain digestive health

Looking to keep your gut healthy this winter? Look no further than vitamin D! According to one study, vitamin D helps regulate the bacteria in your digestive tract. Another research article found that vitamin D helps increase the number and diversity of microbes that live in your gut, which can help reduce inflammation throughout your body.

3. Vitamin D may help protect against COVID-19

While research is still emerging about the impacts of vitamin D on patients with COVID-19, several studies have indicated that it can reduce negative impacts of the virus. Read more about this in one of our recent blog articles.

4. Vitamin D may reduce cancer mortality

Recent research suggests that vitamin D supplementation may be able to reduce all-cause and cancer mortality in middle-aged and elderly patients. According to the study, impacted patients benefited from being supplemented with 10-20 micrograms (400 – 800 IU) of vitamin D per day, and another study indicated that vitamin D supplementation reduced the risk of cancer death by 15 percent.

5. Vitamin D helps regulate nutrients in your body

It’s critical to eat healthy foods so your body can function properly, but that’s only half the battle – and vitamin D can help with the other half. Research suggests that vitamin D plays a critical role in regulating calcium and phosphate in the intestines, bones, and the kidneys.

6. Vitamin D can promote good oral health

Vitamin D is renowned for its benefits for bone health – and that includes your teeth! Vitamin D deficiency is linked with higher risks of tooth defects, periodontitis, and other dental conditions. Studies have linked the maintenance of vitamin D levels with better lifelong dental health and oral development.

7. Vitamin D may help in reducing the risk of type 2 diabetes

While there is no association between total vitamin D intake and type 2 diabetes, one study suggested potential benefits for both vitamin D and calcium intake in reducing the risk of type 2 diabetes.

8. Vitamin D can help treat hypertension

Hypertension, or high blood pressure, can lead to severe health complications and increases the risk for heart disease, stroke, and death. But recent research and growing evidence has identified a link between vitamin D levels and hypertension, and supplementation may help in treating this condition.

9. Vitamin D can help you lose weight

If you’re struggling to shed extra pounds, vitamin D could play a key role in weight loss. According to a study from the British Journal of Nutrition, women who received calcium and vitamin D supplements experienced more than four times the weight and fat loss than women who didn’t take supplements.

10. Vitamin D can help battle depression

Research has indicated a link between vitamin D deficiency and depression, though the exact relationship requires further research. However, adding more vitamin D exposure through time outdoors in the sun, eating vitamin D-rich foods, and taking dietary supplements may help improve your mental well-being.

If you want to stay healthy this year, make sure your body has enough vitamin D so you can feel your best. Order a vitamin D test from empowerDX, get results in 48 hours, and start your journey to a healthier you!