On the positive side, proper levels of Vitamin D support immune function, healthy cell division and bone health. During pregnancy, it contributes to the absorption and metabolism of calcium and phosphorus that build your baby’s bones and teeth. It also reduces the risk of skeletal complications, while balancing birth weight and maintaining proper levels of calcium and phosphorus.
The Midwives at Full Circle Women’s Health check our patients’ Vitamin D levels annually, and during pregnancy we highly encourage Vitamin D3 supplementation.
What is it?
Vitamin D is a steroid vitamin from a group of fat-soluble hormones. According to the Mayo Clinic, the phrase “vitamin D” refers both to D2, which comes from your diet, and D3, which is created in your skin when its exposed to sunlight.
Vitamin D’s main purpose in the body is to regulate blood levels of calcium and phosphorous. However, it has also been shown to decrease the risk of Alzheimer’s and cancer and, most recently, improve the success of IVF treatments.
Serious symptoms of vitamin D deficiency include asthma, depression and heart disease. Less obvious symptoms include restless sleep, muscle cramps, general fatigue, joint pain, muscle pain or weakness, inability to concentrate, headaches, constipation or diarrhea and bladder problems.
Where Can You Get it Naturally?
Vitamin D can be found in catfish, salmon, mackerel, tuna fish, sardines, fortified milk, orange juice and fortified ready-to-eat cereal.
Are you unsure if your Vitamin D levels are sufficient? We’d love to schedule an annual check in with you.