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Its worth noting, however, thatvitamin D deficiencyis common, affecting around a billion people on the planet.

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Georgia Kokolis

Vitamin D helps to regulate calcium and phosphate levels in the body, which affect our bones and muscles.

While often thought of as a mineral, it is a hormone that we primarily synthesise from the sun.

How does vitamin D function in the body?

Insevere cases, long-term vitamin D deficiencies can cause rickets in children and osteoporosis in adults.

Nasser says that maintaining a good vitamin D level during the autumn can help prevent colds and flus.

Nasser adds,which has also been recommended by Columbia University Irving Medical Center.

This should not be practiced without wearinga broad-spectrum SPFduring the summer when sun exposure is at its highest.

How do I know if I am vitamin D deficient?

Which foods are rich in vitamin D?

Always consult the advice of a doctor before creating a supplement plan.