The role of vitamin D in calcium regulation is not limited to bones and teeth.
Calcium also plays an important role in the body’s ability to regulate glucose and insulin levels. Therefore, maintaining adequate blood calcium levels (dependent on adequate vitamin D levels) is important for preventing type 2 diabetes.
Additionally, vitamin D supports the proper functioning of the pancreas, helping to control blood glucose levels (because the pancreas produces insulin).
Our second killer: cancer
Scientists have long been interested in the role of vitamin D in cancer prevention, as studies have shown that people living in southern latitudes (where they are more exposed to the sun and where their bodies can produce vitamin D) are less likely to develop certain types of cancer.
It turned out they were on the right track.
Vitamin D plays an important role in cellular activity, meaning it helps regulate cell multiplication and death.
By definition, cancer is the excessive proliferation of cells accompanied by a slowing of their death rate. This is what allows tumors to form and invade surrounding tissues: they multiply at a dizzying rate and do not die.
However, the effect of vitamin D in stimulating appropriate cellular activity is evident here – studies have shown that vitamin D works by inhibiting the growth of cancer cells and stimulating the death of these deadly cells.
Our number one killer: heart disease
Many studies have shown an association between low vitamin D levels and an increased risk of heart disease, including myocardial infarction, peripheral artery disease, congestive heart failure, and atherosclerosis.
For example, a study by Harvard University researchers found that people with low vitamin D levels are twice as likely to have a heart attack as those with normal vitamin D levels.
This is another example of the anti-inflammatory effects of vitamin D.
Since arterial inflammation is one of the main factors causing high blood pressure, artery damage, atherosclerosis, and ultimately heart disease, the anti-inflammatory properties of vitamin D may help protect against this leading cause of death.
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