LivHealthy

What is Vitamin D?

Vitamin D is often referred to as the Sunshine Vitamin as our body produces it when exposed to the sun. When Vitamin D is in its active form it is considered to be a hormone. For these reasons, Vitamin D is not truly a vitamin. It does, however, play a vital role in maintaining bone density. It helps the body absorb calcium, and keep the right amount of calcium and phosphorus in the blood for the normal functions of muscle and nerves.

Vitamin D Food Sources: 
Although foods are generally low in Vitamin D, the best food sources are: 
Dairy products: cheese, butter, cream, and milk 
Fish liver oil 
Fatty saltwater fish: sea bass, halibut, swordfish, herring, tuna, cod and sable.

Source: 
The Real Vitamin & Mineral Book- Using Supplements for Optimal Health (2nd Edition), by Dr. Shari Lieberman, PhD and Nancy Bruning. Published by Avery Publishing Group, New York in 1997.

Related Links: 
Vitamin D - the Nutrient of the Decade from Dr. Mercola's website www.mercola.com