Vitamin D

Question 1

What are the functions of vitamin D?

Answer 1

It helps the body absorb calcium from foods and enables it to be deposited on the bones and teeth. Phosphorous works with vitamin D and calcium to strengthen bones and teeth.

Question 2

What are non-food and food sources of vitamin D?

Answer 2

Non-food: action of sunlight on the skin

Food: oily fish, eggs, butter, meat, fortified foods (margarine and breakfast cereals), cheese

Question 3

What are the effects of a deficiency in vitamin D in adults and in children?

Answer 3

In adults: the disease is called osteomalacia and is characterised by bone pain and weak bones.

In children: a deficiency leads to a lack of calcium absorption and therefore a skeletal deficiency called rickets.

Question 4

What are the effects of an excess intake of vitamin D?

Answer 4

Large amounts can cause weakening of the bones and can cause excess calcium to be absorbed from food and be deposited into soft tissues (gallstones).