Dietary sources of cholecalciferol, a fat-soluble secosteroid, are essential for maintaining skeletal health and supporting various physiological processes. Limited natural availability necessitates careful consideration of nutritional intake to ensure adequate levels of this crucial nutrient. Common examples include fatty fish, such as salmon, tuna, and mackerel, and fortified foods like milk, yogurt, and certain cereals.
Sufficient intake is vital for calcium absorption, bone mineralization, and immune system regulation. Deficiency can lead to rickets in children and osteomalacia in adults, characterized by weakened bones and increased fracture risk. Historically, cod liver oil has been a recognized source, especially in regions with limited sunlight exposure. Public health initiatives have focused on food fortification to address widespread insufficiency.
