While Vitamin D is traditionally known to be important with controlling calcium levels, we now know it to be a vital component for our immune system, regulating inflammation, and particularly important for the placental growth in pregnancy.
We know that our bodies make Vitamin D from exposure to the sun, however, the increased concerns for developing skin cancer have caused many people to avoid being outdoors and the increased usage of sunscreens have caused a global concern for Vitamin D Deficiency in many people.
Vitamin D is available in some foods and in supplement form, but we cannot get enough Vitamin D from our diets alone.
Some of the health concerns related to Vitamin D Deficiency are: some cancers, multiple sclerosis, diabetes, autism, macular degeneration, and Alzheimer’s disease to name a few.
The other significant health risks for women are fertility issues and pregnancy concerns such as:
- Preeclampsia
- Preterm birth
- Fetal Growth Restriction
- Gestational Diabetes
Additionally, a lack of Vitamin D are suspected in or associated with autism and asthma in children.
Vitamin D screening is not covered by insurance companies at this time, but Camelback Women’s Health is offering this test for $24.
