Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin that plays a key role in many of our body’s functions. We live in the Sunshine State, and on most days natural vitamin D is abundant. But are we getting enough? Studies show that 42% of adults are deficient, 50% of children ages 1-5 are deficient, and 70% of children ages 6-11 are deficient. Although we live in a state where the sun shines daily, we could still be deficient. Knowing your vitamin D numbers is key to your immune system. Good vitamin D levels are linked to preventing cancer, strong bone health, increased strength, positive mental health, mood regulation, brain health, pregnancy health, heart health, autoimmune diseases help and weight management. 

 

A vitamin D level of 20 or higher is considered normal in adults. However, that is still considered low to prevent disease and have a healthy thriving immune system. I personally keep my vitamin D levels over 60 since reading a published medical article on the prevention of breast cancer; look up National Library of Medicine website > Vitamin D and Breast Cancer.

 

There are several factors at play in our deficiencies. There are very few food sources that provide the amount of vitamin D required for our bodies. Darker colored skin, wearing sunscreen, health conditions, and our age also play a part in our deficiencies. Possible symptoms of vitamin D deficiencies are fatigue, depression, bone and muscle pain, trouble with wounds healing, hair loss, weak or brittle nails. Being vitamin D deficient is also linked to diabetes, rheumatic arthritis, Parkinson, Alzheimer diseases, osteomalacia, osteoporosis, and fractures in adults and cancers. 

 

What’s the answer? Sunshine in a bottle aka supplementation. Vitamin D in the form of a supplement is readily available. You can bring your numbers up easily. Your physician can prescribe a vitamin D supplement, or you can buy one at any local store or online. When purchasing a specific brand, be sure to read the label or research it to be sure that it isn’t paired with a lot of unnecessary fillers that your body must process. Know your numbers and go from there.

 

Get out and enjoy the abundant Florida sunshine, too!

 

My best for your health,

Jody