A hand holds a translucent vitamin D capsule up to the sunlight, with the sun shining through the soft gel against a backdrop of a bright blue sky and scattered clouds.

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What is Vitamin D?

A hand holds a translucent vitamin D capsule up to the sunlight, with the sun shining through the soft gel against a backdrop of a bright blue sky and scattered clouds.

Vitamin D is a powerhouse nutrient that supports bone strength, muscle function, and immune health. Known as the “sunshine vitamin,” your body produces it naturally when exposed to sunlight. But with modern lifestyles keeping many people indoors, vitamin D deficiencies are becoming more common, impacting not just general health but also joint and spinal wellness.

At HealthSource Chiropractic, we focus on whole-body wellness, and that includes ensuring your bones, muscles, and joints have the support they need to function properly. Let’s explore why vitamin D is essential and how it plays a role in chiropractic health.

Vitamin D helps your body absorb calcium and phosphorus, two critical minerals for maintaining strong bones and preventing fractures. But it also plays a key role in muscle strength, balance, and reducing inflammation, factors that directly affect spinal health and mobility.

Here’s how vitamin D supports chiropractic care and musculoskeletal health:

Better Muscle Function – Vitamin D supports muscle strength and coordination, helping to prevent injuries and improve movement patterns.

Reduced Inflammation – Chronic inflammation contributes to joint pain and stiffness, and vitamin D has been shown to help regulate inflammatory responses.

Improved Recovery – If you’re receiving chiropractic adjustments, proper vitamin D levels can enhance your body’s ability to heal and recover.

Four women wearing sunglasses and swimsuits are smiling and laughing while lounging by the edge of a swimming pool. They are enjoying a sunny day, leaning on the pool deck, and engaging in conversation.

Ensuring your body has adequate vitamin D is crucial for overall wellness and spinal health. Here are three key ways to maintain healthy levels:

  1. Sunlight Exposure – Spend 10–30 minutes outside a few times a week, letting your skin absorb natural sunlight. This helps your body produce vitamin D naturally.
  2. Dietary Sources – Eat vitamin D-rich foods like fatty fish (salmon, mackerel), egg yolks, and fortified dairy products.
  3. Supplementation – If you have limited sun exposure or a deficiency, vitamin D supplements can help maintain proper levels. Your chiropractor or healthcare provider can help determine the right amount for you.

Vitamin D deficiency can manifest in many ways, often affecting musculoskeletal health. Common symptoms include:

  • Muscle weakness or cramps
  • Joint pain or stiffness
  • Fatigue and low energy
  • Increased risk of fractures
  • Slow recovery from injuries

If you experience any of these symptoms, it may be worth discussing your vitamin D levels with a healthcare provider.

The recommended daily intake varies based on age, lifestyle, and health conditions:

  • Adults (19–70 years): 600 IU per day
  • Adults over 70: 800 IU per day
  • Individuals with musculoskeletal concerns or low sun exposure may require higher doses

Vitamin D is an essential nutrient that supports bone strength, muscle function, and overall wellness—making it a key factor in chiropractic health. Whether through sunlight, diet, or supplements, maintaining adequate levels can help keep your spine, joints, and muscles functioning at their best.

At HealthSource Chiropractic, we’re committed to helping you feel better, move better, and live your best life. If you’re looking for more ways to support your musculoskeletal health, schedule a consultation with HealthSource today!