
Also, the skin’s ability to synthesize vitamin D declines with age. According to the NIH, around half of older adults with hip fractures in the United States may have inadequate vitamin D levels. Older adults: Older adults who spend a lot of time indoors may be at risk of developing a vitamin D deficiency.People who live in colder climates may also get less sunlight exposure during the winter months.
People who get less exposure to sunlight: People who cannot leave the house, work night shifts, or cover their skin for religious reasons may not get the sun exposure that the body needs to create enough vitamin D. The NIH reports that exclusively and partially breastfed infants receive 10 micrograms (mcg), or 400 international units (IU), of vitamin D per day until weaning. Infants drinking breast milk: This does not contain much vitamin D. According to the National Institutes for Health (NIH), these groups can include: Some people are more at risk of developing a vitamin D deficiency. These health claims are authorized in the EU with specific conditions of use.Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin essential for healthy bones, immune function, and cell growth. Falling is a risk factor for bone fractures among men and women 60 years of age and older. Vitamin D helps to reduce the risk of falling associated with postural instability and muscle weakness. Low bone mineral density is a risk factor for osteoporotic bone fractures. Calcium and vitamin D help to reduce the loss of bone mineral in post-menopausal women. Vitamin D is needed for normal growth and development of bone in children. Vitamin D has a role in the process of cell division.
Vitamin D contributes to the normal function of the immune system. Vitamin D contributes to the maintenance of normal teeth. Vitamin D contributes to the maintenance of normal muscle function. Vitamin D contributes to the maintenance of normal bone. Vitamin D contributes to normal blood calcium levels. Vitamin D contributes to normal absorption/utilization of calcium and phosphorus. The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), which provides scientific advice to assist policy makers, has confirmed that clear health benefits have been established for the dietary intake of vitamin D in contributing to: