The Benefits of Vitamin D

Vitamin D is essential for the absorption of calcium in our bodies.  Vitamin D does not refer to a single nutrient but, a group of secosteroids. This group is responsible the absorption of other nutrients such as; iron, magnesium, phosphate and zinc.

A recent study published by JAMA (Journal of the American Medical Association) Neurology, adds to the growing body of evidence linking Vitamin D deficiency to cognitive decline. After a five-year study where doctors did blood tests every year on the 382 participants, in the ones diagnosed with dementia, it was found they had lower vitamin D levels.

Eating fish can help boost our vitamin D levels but it is difficult to get the appropriate amount with just what we eat. To maintain your vitamin D at a proper level may require taking it as a supplement.

 

Getting enough vitamin D can help protect you against a host of diseases, including; heart disease, breast cancer, prostrate and colon cancer, osteoporosis and autoimmune disorders. It also helps to fight off an overactive immune system, insomnia and depression. Vitamin D deficiency may play a role in the development of dementia.

Dietary guidelines many doctors are now recommending are up to 4000 IUs a day. We recommend to ask your doctor to check your blood levels so he/she can monitor exactly how much your body requires.

Vitamin D can be absorbed through the skin by way of a reaction in the skin when exposed to the sun’s UV-B rays. This reaction enables the skin to manufacture Vitamin D.

However, health authorities continue to warn against over exposure to the sun. It is important that you avoid getting sun burned and limit your time in the sun to just 10 minutes of unprotected exposure. After that, follow up with a healthy sunscreen. Take into consideration that the darker your skin tone the more exposure you will need, a person with fair skin should have no more than 10 minutes, if you have a darker skin tone 15 to 20 minutes of exposure, the darkest skin tone will require an hour and a half.

If you are concerned about your vitamin D levels talk to your health care provider. They can direct you on proper nutrition and supplements. Remember to avoid long periods in the sun and use healthy sunscreen.

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