Vitamin D is an important vitamin to your body’s daily function. It is a fat-soluble vitamin that plays a crucial role in many body systems and prevention of some disease states.

It is essential in bone and teeth development and maintenance. Vitamin D is needed for dietary calcium absorption, increasing the reabsorption of calcium from kidneys, and pulling calcium from bone to maintain calcium concentrations within the body when there is insufficient dietary calcium. Vitamin D deficiency can lead to bone disease or weakened bone and teeth.

Vitamin D can enhance the immune system. Low vitamin D levels can lead to a compromised or low immune system.

It has also been found to play a role in insulin secretion and glucose tolerance. Some research has found that vitamin D deficiency may have an adverse effect on insulin secretion in type 2 diabetes.

Vitamin D can help regulate blood pressure. Insufficient vitamin D can increase the risk of hypertension or high blood pressure.

Vitamin D has antioxidant properties within the brain and can improve mood stability and brain function. According to research, low vitamin D levels are associated with increased symptoms of depression and anxiety.

Vitamin D is indeed vital for various bodily functions!

There are several ways we can increase vitamin D within our body.

Vitamin D is referred to as the sunshine vitamin because sunlight and UVB radiation can stimulate production of vitamin D in our skin. Sunlight exposure can provide most people with their entire vitamin D requirements. It is recommended you spend no more than 15 minutes a day between 10 AM and 3 PM, three times a week in the sun.

***Talk with your doctor if you are at increased risk for skin cancer. ***

Vitamin D can be found in certain foods such as fatty fish (salmon, mackerel, sardines), milk fortified with vitamin D, orange juice fortified with vitamin D, fortified whole grain cereals, tofu fortified with vitamin D, and egg yolks. Consume a high vitamin D food/beverage at least once daily.

   ***Talk with your medical team if you are unable to consume these items. ***

Vitamin D supplements are available without prescription and are a part of most multivitamins. The daily recommended allowance (RDA) of vitamin D is 400 IU for infants; 600 IU for children and teens 1-18 years old; 600 IU for adults 19-70 years old; and 800 IU for adults 71 years and older.

   ***Talk with your doctor before starting any supplements and potential interactions with medications you may be taking. ***