The Importance of Vitamin D
By Donna Stark
Vitamin D has been in the news an awful lot lately, hasn't it? And for good reason too! But don't let that fool you because it is something that needs to be prioritized throughout the entire year as well. Unfortunately, though, this is the season when many of us don't get enough of it, thanks to the lack of sunlight and time spent outdoors. If you are concerned about the amount of Vitamin D you are getting, keep reading. Your local chiropractors at The Joint Chiropractic have some suggestions.
Why Is Vitamin D Important?
The presence of Vitamin D in our bodies is essential for optimal health and wellness. Vitamin D supports bone and muscle health, reduces inflammation, and assists in the function of our immune system. A lack of Vitamin D can cause a variety of health conditions, ranging from mild to severe. Take a look at just a few of them below.
- Illness and infections
- Mood swings
- Intense fatigue
- Muscle pain and weakness
- Poor bone health
- Teeth decay
Where to Find Vitamin D
There are three main ways you can get your daily dose of Vitamin D, but one of those ways is much better than the others. Let's take a quick moment to look at your options.
- Sunshine - There's a reason why Vitamin D is called the sunshine vitamin. You simply can't do any better than stepping outside and letting the sun shine down on your body when you want to increase your amount of Vitamin D. Just remember that your skin must be exposed to direct sunlight. Heading outdoors and then standing in the shade won't help you very much at all.
- Food - Because naturally occurring Vitamin D can only be found in a few food items, such as fatty fish, mushrooms, and eggs, most stores will have items on their shelves that are fortified with it. Look in the dairy section for these.
- Supplements - Another alternative to the sun is a Vitamin D supplement. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for recommendations if you aren't sure what your body's needs are. There are plenty of options to choose from both in stores and online.
Giving Your Body What it Needs
Giving your body all the vitamins and minerals it needs is essential for optimal health and wellness, but it can be hard to tell if you are getting the right amounts. That's why it is so important to discuss these concerns with your primary care physician. So, get your questions ready and ask away! It won't be long until your body is functioning the way it was designed!
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Hillsboro, Ore.