Vitamin D

Vitamin D is an amazing vitamin because it is made by our bodies through sun exposure!  Ten to fifteen minutes of sun  a few days a week has been shown to contain the perfect amount of vitamin D for our bodies.

While sun exposure helps your body create Vitamin D, the sun needs to kiss the skin without sunscreen.  This may be hard for some, especially those with darker skin tones or who live in cloudy areas.  Studies have shown that those that live in cloudy climates do not make enough vitamin D. This is due to the cloud cover limiting the amount of UV rays we are exposed to. In a study, Vitamin D supplements were actually given in winter months to help combat winter blues!

Not only does Vitamin D help our moods, it is a key contributor in boosting the immune system. Vitamin D can also be found in food such as cod liver oil, fortified whole milk, fortified cereals, beef liver, yogurt, salmon, eggs and tuna. Nature’s Plus is a great brand for children’s vitamin D. Superiour Source as a sublingual (dissolves under the tongue) vitamin D great brand for adults. Both brands can be purchased at your local health food store.

Vitamin D is a fat soluble vitamin, meaning it is stored in fat cells in our body.  Vitamin D supplements are safe for short periods of time during an illness or off an on throughout winter months. Although, it should not be taken daily with out first consulting a doctor.