Benefits and risks of vitamin D supplementation

Abstract

Vitamin D deficiency is a common problem not only in Poland but also in the world. Studies from previous years indicate its pleiotropic effect and indicate the need for supplementation both in individual risk groups and in the general population. The main sources of cholecalciferol are skin synthesis and intestinal absorption. Vitamin D deficiency adversely affects the cardiovascular, immune and nervous systems. It is also associated with gastrointestinal, metabolic, cancer and autoimmune diseases. Through the immune system, it also affects the respiratory system. Prophylactic doses should depend on age, body weight, seasonal insolation and sun exposure, as well as individual factors such as diet and lifestyle. Excessive supply of vitamin D can lead to hypercalcemia and hypercalciuria, although it is not known how high doses cause toxic effects. Monitoring the exponents of calcium and phosphate metabolism is the basic method of preventing vitamin D toxicity.

Keywords

• 25(OH)D3
• vitamin D
• vitamin D supplementation
• vitamin D- deficiency