Which vitamin is the sexiest, and also has a D in it?
It's Vitamin D! Otherwise known as the “sunshine Vitamin,” it's a very important nutrient for women's health.
What does it do?
Vitamin D regulates the absorption of calcium from the foods we eat. It also helps with hormone function and nervous system regulation. It’s vital for bone development and strength, cell growth and maintaining a healthy immune system. So pretty much every organ in the body needs vitamin D to function effectively.
Why is it so important for women?
Vitamin D deficiencies have been linked to lower estrogen levels, which can have negative consequences for women’s sexual health. Having healthy levels of estrogen in the body promotes vaginal lubrication and increases sexual desire, whereas symptoms of low estrogen include moodiness or irritability, vaginal dryness, hot flushes and the thinning of vaginal tissues which can cause discomfort during sex.
What the science says:
One study from 2018 found that vitamin D improved sexual desire, orgasm, and sexual satisfaction in women with vitamin D deficiency.
Another more recent study found vitamin D to be an effective in alleviating menopausal symptoms like vaginal dryness, irritation and urinary symptoms by improving vaginal pH, sexual function and pelvic floor function.
Even though there appears to be a definitive link between vitamin D levels and estrogen in women, it is imperative to note that female sexuality is complex and is affected by numerous biological, psychological and social factors. In other words, it's not so simple to determine that a lack of sexual desire equals a vitamin D deficiency.
The best way to get your vitamin D
Your amazing body is capable of producing its own vitamin D, using the power of that giant ball of fire in the sky. So let this be your reminder to get your daily dose of Vitamin D, just the way nature intended. Obviously making sure to avoid the hottest part of the day, get your daily dose at the beach, or butt naked in your backyard with your perineum to the sky – the choice is yours.