Vitamin D3: an indispensable building block in complementary therapy
Landscape,
rays of sun tickle the skin and a feeling of warmth and vitality spreads
.
But in addition to the pleasant sensation that a beautiful sunny day brings
, sunlight also makes a decisive contribution to
our health: it enables the synthesis of vitamin D3, the
"sun vitamin".
This particular vitamin has been discussed by
scientists and health experts for years, and its importance for
human health can hardly be overestimated.
Vitamin D3, also known as cholecalciferol, is not just a vitamin in the
conventional sense, but rather a prohormone that plays a central role in
numerous physical processes.
From strengthening the immune system
and regulating calcium and phosphate balance to
supporting muscle function - the list of health benefits of
vitamin D3 is long and impressive.
In this article you will learn everything you need to know about vitamin D3 in
complementary therapy:
- What exactly is vitamin D3?
- How does it work in the body?
- When is supplementation advisable?
- And how can a vitamin D deficiency be recognised and treated?
Immerse yourself with us in the world
of the "sun vitamin" and discover why vitamin D3 is an
indispensable building block in the landscape of complementary therapies.
What is vitamin D3?
Vitamin D3 is one of two main forms of vitamin D, the other being vitamin D2 (ergocalciferol). While vitamin D2 is mainly found in plant sources and fortified foods, vitamin D3 is mainly formed in the skin under the influence of UVB radiation and is also contained in animal products.
As soon as vitamin D - whether ingested as D2 or D3 - enters the body, it is converted in the liver into 25-hydroxyvitamin D, the storage form of the vitamin. However, the actual activation takes place in the kidneys, where it is converted to 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D, the biologically active form.
The health benefits of vitamin D3
Activated vitamin D3 has a number of important functions in the body:
Bone health:
Vitamin D3 promotes the absorption of calcium and phosphate from the intestine, which are essential for the formation and maintenance of bones.
Immune system:
It supports the functions of the immune system and helps to fight infections and inflammation.
Muscle function:
An adequate supply of vitamin D3 is important for maintaining normal muscle function
Cell division:
Vitamin D3 is involved in the regulation of cell growth and cell division , which in turn can have a preventive effect against certain types of cancer.
Cardiovascular system:
Studies suggest that vitamin D3 may play a role in the regulation of blood pressure and heart health.
The importance of vitamin D3 in complementary therapy
In complementary medicine, vitamin D3 is used as a supportive measure for various diseases. Here, the "sun vitamin" is not regarded as the sole therapeutic agent, but as part of a holistic treatment strategy.
For autoimmune diseases
such as multiple sclerosis, vitamin D3 is valued for its immunomodulatory properties. It can help to regulate the immune system and dampen excessive reactions.
In cancer therapy
research is being conducted into the extent to which vitamin D3 can inhibit the growth of cancer cells. Some studies suggest that an adequate supply of vitamin D could reduce the risk of certain types of cancer.
In the case of cardiovascular diseases
it is being investigated whether vitamin D3 can help protect against heart attacks and strokes . The focus here is on its potential role in regulating blood pressure and inhibiting inflammation.
For bone health
vitamin D3 is essential for bone health anyway, especially in diseases such as osteoporosis. Here it supports the absorption of calcium and thus contributes to the strength of the bones.
Vitamin D deficiency: symptoms and diagnosis
A vitamin D3 deficiency can have a variety of causes: too little sun exposure, an unbalanced diet or diseases that impair the absorption or conversion of the vitamin. The symptoms of deficiency are often non-specific and can range from tiredness and general weakness to muscle pain and depressive moods.
Vitamin D deficiency is usually diagnosed via a blood test, in which the concentration of 25-hydroxyvitamin D in the blood serum is measured. Values of less than 20 ng/ml (50 nmol/l) are considered a deficiency, although the optimal reference values can vary between professional associations.
Vitamin D3 supplementation: dosage and forms of administration
If a vitamin D deficiency is diagnosed or there is an increased risk of it , supplementation may be advisable. The recommended daily dose varies depending on age, gender and individual conditions. In principle, supplementation should always be carried out in consultation with a doctor or alternative practitioner, to avoid overdosing.
Vitamin D3 is available in various forms: as tablets, capsules, drops or also as an injection. Drops are particularly suitable for people who have difficulty swallowing tablets or prefer an individualised dosage.
Natural sources of vitamin D3
Although the body's own production of vitamin D3 through sunlight is the main source, there are some foods that contain significant amounts of vitamin D3. These include oily fish (such as salmon, mackerel or herring), liver, egg yolk and, to a lesser extent, meat and dairy products.
Conclusion
Vitamin D3 is an essential building block for health and has found a firm place in complementary therapy due to its diverse modes of action. Whether for prevention, as a supportive measure for existing diseases or to improve general well-being - the "sun vitamin" deserves our full attention. It is important to be aware that a good supply of vitamin D3 can contribute significantly to maintaining our health.
If you have any questions about your personal vitamin D supply or are considering starting supplementation, talk to your doctor or nutritionist. They can help you determine your individual needs at and find the best way to optimise your vitamin D balance.
Remember: Health is a precious commodity, and taking care of our body with all the necessary nutrients, including vitamin D3, is an important step in preserving this commodity. Take your health into your own hands and use the knowledge of the effects of vitamin D3 to increase your well-being and as a foundation for a long, vital life.
