Vitamin D

Scientists have used a novel way to modify tomato plants to have fruits rich in a precursor to vitamin D.

Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin found in foods such as fatty fish, fish liver oils, cow liver, cheese, and egg yolks.
When UV rays from the sun impact the skin and activate vitamin D production, it is also created endogenously.
- The sun causes a chemical process that transforms a cholesterol-based molecule to calcidiol in the liver and calcitriol in the kidney.
- Technically known as 25-OHD, these molecules are biologically active.

Vitamin D helps to keep blood calcium and phosphate levels in check. It inhibits bone deterioration.
Other functions of vitamin D in the body include cell proliferation, neuromuscular and immunological function, and inflammation reduction.
Vitamin D helps your body absorb calcium. Calcium is one of the main building blocks of bone. Vitamin D also has a role in your nervous, muscle, and immune systems.
Vitamin D deficiency can lead to a loss of bone density, which can contribute to osteoporosis and fractures (broken bones).
Severe vitamin D deficiency can also lead to other diseases. In children, it can cause rickets. Rickets is a rare disease that causes the bones to become soft and bend.

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