“Combined with the dramatic expansion in interest in vitamin D—partly driven by popular books promoting high doses—it is perhaps not surprising that cases of vitamin D toxicity have increased,” the authors concluded.
Vitamin D is known as the “sunshine vitamin” because the body produces it when exposed to sunlight. Typically, this accounts for about 90 percent of a person’s vitamin D needs, with the rest coming from foods such as fatty fish and fortified dairy products.
Vitamin D plays an important role in helping the body absorb calcium and maintain immune function, cell growth, metabolism, and neuromuscular activity. Long-term deficiency can increase the risk of neurological disorders, autoimmune diseases, bone conditions, and cardiovascular disease.
However, the benefits of vitamin D supplements remain controversial. While some studies suggest they may slow aging, boost cognition, or improve mood, others question their effectiveness.
