Here Comes The Sun, Vitamin D3 - Why is It Important

What is Vitamin D3 and its effects on Skin, Beauty and Anti-Aging

Vitamin D3 and/or its receptors are responsible for the regulation of a variety of skin functions, such as reducing proliferation, encouraging differentiation leading to the creation of strength permeability barriers, invigorating innate immunity, controlling the hair follicle cycle, and subduing tumorigenesis.

Applying vitamin D3 topically to the skin has been proven to be a successful form of protection against UV damage. It has been shown to minimize cell death, encourage cell survival, and eliminate redness caused by UV-induced skin damage. In addition, it has the ability to brighten the skin's complexion and diminish dullness. A deficiency in vitamin D3 can lead to several skin conditions, such as rashes and acne, and therefore, it is recommended to take the necessary dosage in order to keep the skin looking healthy and glowing. Women in particular, tend to benefit from vitamin D3 since it acts as a natural stress relief and helps reduce the signs of aging. Scientific studies have also demonstrated that vitamin D3 can boost the mood and help with weight loss. It works as an immunomodulator and decreases systemic inflammation, which improves the chances of avoiding chronic illnesses and slows the development of those that have already been diagnosed. Furthermore, vitamin D3 is heavily associated with treating inflammatory skin conditions, such as psoriasis and atopic dermatitis. Additionally, it is known to promote healthy hair growth and stop autoimmune forms of hair loss like alopecia areata that are caused by a deficiency in vitamin D3.

In order to maintain healthy levels of Vitamin D3, it is recommended to keep it at or above 30 nanograms per milliliter. Vitamin D3, being a fat soluble vitamin, is responsible for absorbing calcium and phosphate that pass through the intestines. Sunlight is required for Vitamin D3 to be transformed and activated in the skin. Therefore, in order to ensure that sufficient Vitamin D3 is produced within the body, enough time in the sun must be spent. If not, an alternative form of Vitamin D3 must be obtained instead.

Vitamin D3 deficiency is quite common, with a value of below 30 nanograms per litre. Research has found that those with lower vitamin D3 levels (under 30 nanograms per millimeter) have a much higher risk of death than those whose levels are under 10 nanograms per millimeter. Individuals in the 10 to 20 nanogram range are 20 percent more likely to die, while those in the range of 10 or below are 50 percent more likely to die during the follow up period.

Vitamin D3 levels have been linked to longer telomere lengths in white blood cells, known as leukocytes. Telomeres are the end pieces of DNA strands which determine the lifespan of cells and, in turn, the lifespan of the organism. Consequently, having the right level of Vitamin D3 can increase the lifespan by propelling the length of telomeres of leukocytes. In addition, the downstream effects of normal Vitamin D3 levels can lead to a reduced risk of cardiovascular disease, various cancers, and various respiratory diseases.

Vitamin D3 synthesis requires sunlight exposure on your skin to become active, and there are many reasons why sunlight exposure has decreased. Mostly people are doing it consciously to avoid skin cancer, but also because people are living and working in more urban environments and are more likely to be working and spending time indoors rather than outdoors.

If your Vitamin D3 level is 15 or lower, it is probable that you will require taking a high dose Vitamin D3-- usually 50 thousand units weekly for 12 weeks before transitioning to a regular daily supplement. I advise speaking to your health care specialist regarding taking the high dose Vitamin D3 supplement. The advantages greatly exceed any potential risks, and there is not really a good alternative to the supplement which you can acquire over the counter.

Additional Resources:

1. https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-10175/vitamin-d3-oral/details
2. https://www.healthline.com/health/food-nutrition/benefits-vitamin-d