Vitamin D in its pure form is a
white crystalline substance. As a supplement, however it may be found as light yellow oil.
It is also known as the 'sunshine vitamin' since it can be synthesised in the skin from
sunlight.
Natural foods are poor sources of Vitamin D.
Small amounts are present in egg yolk, liver and fish. Fortified foods like milk powder,
vanaspati are also good sources. Another important source of vitamin D is the sunlight.
The UV rays help in the conversion of 7 dehydro-cholesterol to chole calciferol.
Vitamin D plays an important role in calcium
metabolism.
This mineral is important for normal growth and development, especially the
mineralisation (hardening) of bones. Vitamin D stimulates the absorption of calcium from
the gut.
