Here comes the sun

Eighty percent of our vitamin D comes from sunlight conversion.

In my previous post I discussed how a lack of sunlight (and hence) Vitamin D - particularly in the northern hemisphere in winter, can effect people's sleep patterns and result in depression, lack of energy, and an increased need for sleep known as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD).

However, a new study also links low vitamin D levels to reduced diversity of microbiome in the gut. This can result increased inflammation, reduced immunity, and has been implicated in Irritable Bowel Disease (IBD). Other studies have also concluded that a lack of vitamin D contributes to hypertension and cardiovascular disease.

Exposure to arms and legs for 5 to 30 minutes between 10:00 AM and 3:00 PM is often adequate to meet vitamin D requirements. However, variables such as time of day, season, latitude, clothing, sunscreen use, skin pigmentation, and age affect the amount of vitamin D converted in the skin. Ageing, also decreases the amount of vitamin D the body makes.

Oral vitamin D supplementation is known to be beneficial for individuals who suffer from chronic inflammatory diseases, and studies have shown that taking vitamin D supplements offers beneficial effects without having to make any dietary changes. Vitamin D helps your body absorb calcium from the food you eat, and helps protect you from diseases like osteoporosis and cancer.

Oily fish, such as salmon, mackerel, and herring, are also rich sources of vitamin D. However, it is difficult to achieve and maintain optimal levels of vitamin D by diet alone. Few foods are natural sources of vitamin D and fortified foods contain only limited amounts.

If you think you might be lacking in vitamin D seek advice from your doctor. Although you can't get too much vitamin D from diet and sunshine alone - although rare, it is possible to get too much from long-term high strength vitamin D supplements.

Finally, nothing beats a stroll in the sunshine, taking in nature and fresh air.

If you need help with motivation to get out there and receive a shot of vitamin D, contact me and let's chat about the many ways you can increase your health and vitamin D level naturally.

Sources: Frontiers in microbiology & Journal of Evidence-Based Integrative Medicine

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