Naturally, the human body produces Vitamin D when it is exposed to direct sunlight. Unfortunately, during winter, we don’t have that advantage and may find ourselves lacking Vitamin D when we are not exposed for extended periods.
Vitamin D plays a vital role in the development of strong teeth and bones and the absorption of calcium and phosphorus (that helps the body create energy and make new cells) and facilitating normal immune system function.
The benefits of Vitamin D
There are many benefits to ensuring that your body is enjoying sufficient amounts of vitamin D.
Vitamin D is disease-fighting
Vitamin D supports the immune system and low levels of vitamin D are linked to an increased risk of multiple sclerosis (MS), and heart diseases such as hypertension, heart failure, and stroke.
Vitamin D can reduce depression
There’s a reason why therapists suggest catching some sun when you’re feeling low, emotionally. Vitamin D has been proven to reduce the symptoms of depression.
Low levels of vitamin D are also a risk factor for symptoms of fibromyalgia, anxiety, and depression.
ALSO READ: Soak up all the Vitamin D you can get, you’re going to need it!
Symptoms of a vitamin D deficiency
In adults, symptoms of a vitamin D deficiency are rather opaque. In most cases, there are no signs or symptoms and the diagnosis would need to come from a blood test conducted by a medical practitioner.
Here are a few symptoms of a vitamin D deficiency:
- Fatigue
- Bone pain
- Muscle weakness, muscle aches or muscle cramps
- Mood changes, like depression
How to increase your vitamin D intake
Here are some foods that naturally have vitamin D:
- Fatty fish like salmon, tuna, mackerel, sardines and trout.
- Beef liver
- Mushrooms
- Egg yolks
- Cod liver oil
Here are some fortified foods that often have added vitamin D include:
- Cow’s milk and soy, almond and oat milk
- Breakfast cereals
- Orange juice
- Other dairy products, such as yoghurt
If you’re still not getting enough vitamin D from your diet, you can also get a vitamin D supplement to increase your vitamin D intake or get your hands on a multivitamin that contains vitamin D.
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