Get the Skin-ny on Vitamin D

We often focus on the benefits of Vitamin D for the bones and the immune system, but vitamin D does play a vital role in skin health. Conversely, lack of vitamin D is associated with skin disease. In a recent study of data derived from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES), data from 500 patients with psoriasis was analyzed. Researchers found a linear relationship between severity of psoriasis and vitamin D levels; the lower the vitamin D, the more severe the psoriasis.

In fact, the latest dermatology research shows that vitamin D plays a role in many skin diseases, including atopic dermatitis, acne, certain skin cancers and many more. Vitamin D can benefit everyone’s skin. In fact, vitamin D is synthesized in the skin but most people don’t get enough vitamin D. Worldwide, as many as 50 percent of people – in all age groups — are deficient in vitamin D. There are many reasons for this, but the two main reasons are lack of sunlight and lack of vitamin D in the diet. Certain medical conditions or medications prevent the body from properly absorbing and using vitamin D.

The Vitamin D Council recommends 1,000 IU per 25 pounds of body weight for children and 5,000 IU daily total for adults. Everyone should not only know his or her individual vitamin D level but should also know ways to correct deficiencies. One of the best and easiest ways is to take a daily supplement.

The skin is the first barrier of defense against foreign invaders, so the skin really depends on vitamin D for its anti-inflammatory properties as it prevents pathogens from invading. Vitamin D also promotes healthy epidermal cell growth and prevents skin aging. Finally, vitamin D also helps the body synthesize connective tissue. Remember, your largest body organ is your skin, so treat it right with vitamin D.