Best source of Vit D is sunbathing
So how important is Vitamin D?
“A number of diseases have been linked to low vitamin D levels such as the increased risk of death from cardiovascular disease, cognitive impairment in older adults, severe asthma in children, osteoporosis and cancer. Research suggests that vitamin D could play a role in the prevention and treatment of a number of different conditions, including type1 and type 2 diabetes, hypertension, glucose intolerance and multiple sclerosis.”
Some researchers even suggest there may even be a link between influenza and Vit D deficiency To view the Abstract click here.
People at risk of Vitamin D deficiency are:
- those who mostly stay indoors
- have naturally dark skin
- cover their bodies for religious/cultural/medical reasons
- are obese
- have a health condition or take medication that affects vitamin D absorption
Fortunately, our own bodies manufacture Vitamin D by exposing our skin directly to the sun. In summer we only need a few minutes and in autumn/winter more “skin- sun” time is needed. Best to avoid high-UV times such as the middle of the day. During the colder months, you can also supplement with oral Vitamin D but be mindful that not all Vit Ds are made equal as to the quality and to complicate matters there are different types of Vit D ( Vit D 3, Vit D 2). At our clinic, our Naturopaths recommend BioMedica PhytaD 50ml Oral Spray that is vegan friendly but of course, you are free to choose from the large selection of Vit D supplements currently on the market.
