Vitamin D, commonly referred to as the “Sunshine Vitamin” is naturally produced in the body upon contact to sunlight. It promotes calcium absorption, and also helps maintain adequate levels of other important minerals in the body. Without it bones can become brittle, and the body can suffer in a variety of other ways. Vitamin D plays a role in cellular growth, immune function, neuromuscular function and also acts as an anti-inflammatory.

New research has revealed that Vitamin D not only supports strong, healthy bones and a healthy immune system, but it may also help increase calorie burn especially in the belly area. Researchers at the University of Minnesota did a clinical study of 38 people to see if a person’s level of vitamin D could actually be a predictor of that person’s ability to lose fat. According to Shalamar Sibley, a researcher involved in the study, results suggested that starting with an inadequate level of vitamin D, it’s possible that this might inhibit a person’s ability to lose weight on a reduced calorie diet.(1)