The traditional view of Vitamin D is that it is essential for bone health. Vitamin D deficiency is linked to rickets in children; and osteomalacia in adults. These two conditions can lead to bone deformities with an increased risk of fractures.
Beyond the focus on bone health the evidence for other health effects of Vitamin D has been inconsistent and controversial. Claims have been made about the possible benefits of Vitamin D supplementation in reducing the risk of cancer, heart disease and strokes. Enhancements to the immune system have also been postulated with potential impacts on infections and conditions such as multiple sclerosis.
Research from the University of California published in the current edition of the American Journal of Public Health shows that individuals with lower levels of vitamin D in their blood are twice as likely to die prematurely compared with those with higher levels of Vitamin D.
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