Nutrition For Mortals Vitamin D Truths (and Truthers)
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Oct 29, 2025 Explore the fascinating world of vitamin D, a nutrient linked to bone health and mood regulation. Discover the science behind its unique synthesis and the historical impact of rickets. Delve into the debate over its effectiveness against COVID-19 and mental health, while critically evaluating online claims from self-proclaimed experts. Learn practical advice on supplementation based on individual needs, and uncover the importance of sunlight exposure versus pills. This discussion sheds light on the truths and myths surrounding the 'sunshine vitamin'.
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Vitamin D Is Sun‑Made And Hormone‑Like
- Vitamin D is unique because our bodies can synthesize it from sunlight rather than only from food sources.
- This makes vitamin D part vitamin and part hormone with effects beyond classic vitamins.
Rickets Solved By Sun And Fortified Foods
- Matt recounts historical rickets outbreaks in polluted northern cities and how sun exposure reversed it.
- He describes fortification and cod liver oil as historical fixes that essentially eradicated rickets.
Receptors Everywhere, But Benefits Not Assured
- Researchers found vitamin D receptors on immune cells and many other tissues, implying broad biological roles.
- Presence of receptors creates plausible benefits but doesn't prove supplements improve all health outcomes.
