Scientific studies have found that vitamin D can help promote a healthy immune system and may protect against respiratory conditions> Vitamin D is sometimes the forgotten supplement. We were all told as kids to “Drink our Milk”, but never really understood the importance. Interestingly. Floridians and residents of other sunny areas tend to have less Vitamin D deficiencies than people from areas with little sunlight (this is especially true in the winter months- when sunlight is scarce). The sun’s ultraviolet B (UVB) rays hit cholesterol in the skin cells, providing the energy for Vitamin D synthesis to occur. The Sun is your best source of Vitamin D.
Vitamin D plays several other important roles in the body, including:
- Promoting a healthy immune system
- Supporting brain and nervous system health
- Promoting respiratory health
- Supporting lung function and cardiovascular healthy
- Promoting calcium absorption
- Building and maintaining healthy bones and teeth
- influencing the expression of genes involved in the development of cancer
- Regulating insulin levels and supporting the management of diabetes
- May help prevent the development of asthma, eczema, and other allergic diseases in children
- May reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression
- May decrease risk of seasonal flu
- Can help support restful sleep
- May promote healthy pregnancy and delivery
- May naturally boost testosterone
- May suppress appetite and boost weight loss
- May improve athletic performance and energy
As we get older, it is more difficult for the human body to synthesize vitamin D. Additionally, deficiency can also arise due to insufficient exposure to sunlight, poor diet, obesity, IBS, and other factors.
Top Natural Sources of Vitamin D:
- Sun Exposure
- Cod Liver Oil
- Salmon
- Trout
- Sardines
- Herring
- Beef Liver
- Canned Tuna
- Mushrooms (Wild or Treated with UV Light)
- Egg Yolks
- Cow’s Milk
Another option is high quality supplementation, including supplementing with cod liver oil. This is a favorite among many, as it also contains Omega 3 fatty-acids and vitamin A. Always follow recommended dosing since too much of some nutrients can be harmful. If you are uncertain, consult with a physician or nutritionist.
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