Weight loss is a topic that has always been a concern for people trying to lead a healthy lifestyle. Different methods were introduced to lose weight, ranging from exercises, diet plans to supplements.
What if we tell you that Vitamin D, commonly known as the sunshine vitamin, has a significant impact on weight loss? Let us explain how.
What is Vitamin D and Why Do We Need It?
Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin that our bodies produce when we are exposed to sunlight. It is also found in dairy products, eggs, and fatty fish.
The primary function of Vitamin D is to absorb and regulate the minerals calcium and phosphorus, which helps in promoting healthy bones.
Vitamin D also has an essential role in our immune system, helping to reduce the risk of infections and diseases. It is also known for its anti-inflammatory properties, helping in reducing inflammation throughout the body.
The Relation Between Vitamin D and Weight Loss
Recent studies have shown a connection between Vitamin D and weight loss. Studies have found that Vitamin D deficiency may lead to weight gain and obesity. Vitamin D helps to reduce insulin resistance, which is a contributing factor to weight gain.
When insulin resistance is reduced, the body is better in utilizing glucose and burns fat effectively instead of storing it.
Vitamin D also helps increase the production of neurotransmitters, such as serotonin, the happiness hormone, and dopamine, the reward hormone.
These hormones reduce the chances of stress and anxiety, leading to reduced chances of overeating, which can result in weight gain.
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The Role of Vitamin D in Reducing Belly Fat
Belly fat, also known as visceral fat, is the fat located around the organs inside the abdomen. Visceral fat is the most dangerous fat accumulation in the body and can lead to various health problems.
A study has found that an increase in Vitamin D levels can help to reduce visceral fat. Fat cells have Vitamin D receptors, and when activated, they help in burning the stored fat.
Vitamin D also helps reduce cortisol levels in the body, which is a stress hormone that causes the accumulation of visceral fat.
How to Get Enough Vitamin D?
The recommended daily intake (RDI) for Vitamin D is 600-800 IU. However, according to studies, most people are deficient in Vitamin D, and it is difficult to get enough from diet alone.
Other than sunlight exposure, taking Vitamin D supplements can be an easy and effective way to increase Vitamin D levels in the body.
When picking a Vitamin D supplement, it is recommended to choose Vitamin D3 over D2, as D3 is more effective in raising Vitamin D levels.
You can also increase your Vitamin D intake by consuming foods such as fatty fish, egg yolks, fortified milk and cereals, and mushrooms.
The Bottom Line
Vitamin D plays an essential role in our body, promoting healthy bones, reducing inflammation, and improving the immune system. It is also beneficial for weight loss and reducing belly fat accumulation.
Supplementing with Vitamin D or increasing our intake through vitamin D-rich foods can help us maintain healthy levels and experience its benefits. Therefore, make sure to spend some time in the sun and get your daily dose of Vitamin D.
