Vitamin D is also useful in reducing inflammation and stimulating immune function and cell growth.
Since vitamin D plays a key role in many bodily functions, research has linked it to a variety of potential wellness benefits.
1. May reduce the risk of multiple sclerosis
Research shows that people with vitamin D deficiency have a 54 percent higher risk of multiple sclerosis (MS), a neurological disorder, than those with sufficient levels, and the risk may be much lower when people take vitamin D supplements.
The benefits may not translate into treatment of the disease. Research shows that vitamin D can help prevent MS, but it does not appear to improve disability or reduce relapses in MS patients. In fact, too much vitamin D can cause symptoms such as fatigue, bladder problems, and muscle weakness, which can mimic the symptoms of MS.
Be sure to talk to your doctor if you have MS or vitamin D deficiency to determine the right approach to your health problems.
2. It can protect mental health
Vitamin D is an antioxidant that has activity in brain tissue and studies show that low levels of vitamin D are associated with increased symptoms of depression and anxiety. Researchers recommend that doctors monitor vitamin D levels as part of prevention and treatment planning around these mood disorders.
“Mental health and nutrition are closely related,” says Maxine Yeungowner of The Wellness Whisk in the San Francisco Bay area. “A link between vitamin D deficiency and increased symptoms of depression and anxiety highlights the importance of meeting nutrient needs to help support emotional well-being.”
A review of 18 clinical trials found that vitamin D supplements helped slightly reduce symptoms of depression, but only in people who already have adequate levels of vitamin D. That means that if you are deficient, your levels may need to be corrected before you see the added benefit of vitamin D supplementation. More research is needed to determine the effective dosage.
3. May Help Improve Cancer and Chronic Disease Outcomes
One review found that taking vitamin D can help prevent breast, colorectal, and lung cancer, and may even reduce mortality from colon cancer. That said, results for other cancers are inconsistent or unavailable.
In another randomized controlled trial of more than 25,000 participants, those who took 2,000 IU of vitamin D did not have a lower rate of cancer or cardiovascular events than the placebo group. But those who developed cancer had a 25 percent lower mortality rate when taking vitamin D.
“Understanding the role of vitamin D in preventing chronic diseases is important when determining the appropriate supplementation recommendation,” says Yeung. “This study shows that in generally healthy adults, regular vitamin D supplements may not help reduce cancer risk; however, there may be benefits for those with cancer.”
The findings also included a possible reduction in cancer risk among African Americans, which the researchers said deserves further study.
