29 Nov The Healthy Advantages of Having Enough Vitamin D
Vitamin D is an essential vitamin for the body to function correctly. During the winter months, it is common for adults to be deficient in Vitamin D. This is because the days are shorter, and we are not exposed to much sunlight during the day.
Where Does Vitamin D Come From?
Vitamin D can be absorbed through the skin by exposure to UV light from the sun. In our diets, Vitamin D is naturally found in fatty fish, milk, and cheese products. It can also be added to foods like juices and plant milk. For some people, exposure to UV light and a diet rich in Vitamin D foods is sometimes not enough, and Vitamin D supplements may be necessary to keep levels within your body at a normal level.
What are the Advantages of Vitamin D
Vitamin D has many advantages and is essential for the body to function correctly. Vitamin D is used by the body to
- Keep bones and joints healthy and strong
- Improve blood sugar levels
- Improve mood and reduce the risk of depression
- Help to prevent heart disease and lower blood pressure
- Reduce the risk of certain cancers, including colon, breast bladder, esophageal, uterine, cervical, and pancreatic cancers.
- Improve the immune system
- Prevent Strokes
How Do I Know if My Vitamin D is Low?
Low vitamin D levels can cause you to feel fatigued and experience insomnia, depression, hair loss, muscle weakness, bone, and joint pain, or frequent infections. If you think your Vitamin D level may be low, speak to your doctor. Your vitamin D level can be easily checked through a blood test.
Vitamin D Supplementation
To maintain a normal vitamin D level in the body, it is recommended to get 10-30 minutes of midday sun a few times per week. During the winter months, this can be difficult to do, and many people may need to take Vitamin D supplements to maintain their vitamin D levels. Please speak with your doctor if you think Vitamin D supplementation is for you.