Doctor explains why vitamin D is important for gastrointestinal health

Vitamin D is one of the most important elements for our health. Russian gastroenterologist Yelena Mironova explains how it affects the gastrointestinal tract.

The doctor emphasised that vitamin D is very important for those who have intestinal diseases, “Nowadays, a large number of people suffer from its deficiency, the occurrence of which does not depend on age or ethnicity. We get vitamin D in two main natural ways. The first is alimentary, i.e., we consume foods that contain it. These are mainly fish such as herring, mackerel, salmon, sardines, but also dairy products, egg yolks, liver and red meat.”

Another natural way is through the production of endogenous vitamin D in the skin when exposed to sunlight.

“Unfortunately, both ways do not replenish the daily requirement, which sometimes seriously affects our health,” the specialist noted. “For example, vitamin D deficiency leads to serious disorders of the ileum mucosa. As a result, the quality and quantity of intestinal mucus, which covers the mucosa and contains antimicrobial peptides, is reduced. Consequently, its immune, protective and digestive functions are significantly impaired.”

The gastroenterologist also explained how it is possible to make up for the deficiency of this vitamin, “If you cannot get its necessary norm from food and sunlight, then you can buy special medications. I recommend oil solutions that are absorbed in the best way. I also advise you to take a blood test for vitamin D levels and consult a doctor who will select the necessary dosage,” Ms. Mironova summarised.