3. Supports the Healthy Function of the Digestive System
Researchers recently highlighted the importance of vitamin D in the prevention of intestinal diseases, including cancer. Science has known for some time the importance of vitamin D to counter the effects of inflammatory bowel diseases such as Crohn’s and ulcerative colitis.
4. Helps to Reduce Eye Conditions such as Dry Eye and Macular Degeneration
According to a recent study published in the International Journal of Rheumatic Diseases," patients with vitamin D deficiency should be evaluated for dry eye syndromes."
Vitamin D deficiency may also raise the risk of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) if you are genetically predisposed to it. This study suggests that if you’re at high genetic risk for AMD, having sufficient vitamin D levels might help reduce your risk.
5. Supports Your Body's Response to Inflammatory Diseases
We’ve already discussed the importance of vitamin D and it’s ability to counter the effects of inflammatory bowel diseases such as Crohn’s and ulcerative colitis. There is additional evidence linking vitamin D deficiency to chronic inflammatory diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis and other arthritic diseases.
6. Strengthens Your Body’s Ability to Fight Infections
Vitamin D is well known for its ability to combat infections and strengthen immune function. Research suggests vitamin D supplementation may be an easy and affordable way to fight even more serious infections like HIV.
7. Protective Effects Against High Blood Pressure and Hardening of the Arteries
Science Newsline reports “The results add to the evidence that lack of vitamin D can lead to impaired vascular health, contributing to high blood pressure and the risk of cardiovascular disease.” Even if you’re “generally healthy”, if you’re deficient in vitamin D your arteries are likely stiffer than they should be resulting in high blood pressure.
8. Lowers the Risk for Autoimmune Diseases such as Multiple Sclerosis and Lupus
At least a dozen studies have noted a strong link between multiple sclerosis (MS) and vitamin D deficiencies. Research has also shown that most patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) have some level of vitamin D deficiency. Those with lower levels also tend to have greater difficulty controlling their disease.