How To Get Your Daily Dose Of Vitamin D
Vitamin D is known as the sunshine vitamin. However, have you ever wondered why there are so many health advertisements that are asking "Did you get your daily dose of vitamin D?" or why every health magazine talks about the best sources to get this vitamin D?
Through this guide, all your questions will be answered to why vitamin D is so important!
What is Vitamin D?
Vitamin D is fat-soluble that helps maintain and allow normal growth of teeth and bones. Additionally, it can help regulate the immune system which is important for your overall health.
Vitamin D can be found through the sun which your body would produce vitamin D on its own and also can be found in fish, egg and milk.
It is important to make sure you consistently get your daily dose of vitamin D, especially as a child and an elder.
What are the Benefits?
The main importance of vitamin D is that it makes sure that you maintain and have healthy bones. Vitamin D allows maintenance of calcium and phosphorous levels in the blood. This reduces the risk of rickets disease in children (softening of the bones) and osteoporosis in adults (poor bone density and muscular weakness).
Vitamin D has also been shown in research studies that it reduces the risk of influenza in children. It also helps with a healthy pregnancy as it lowers the risk of developing preeclampsia, bacterial vaginosis and needing a cesarean. However, too much vitamin D can be toxic and causes higher allergy rates in children.
It is also known to help recovery after exercise or physical activities and helps decrease levels of physical fatigue.
Where Can You Find Vitamin D?
There are many sources that you can find vitamin D that you can add into your daily life and diet:
- Sunlight
- Fish oil
- Fish
- Skim milk / Whole milk
- Egg
- Fortified orange juice
- Chicken
Vitamin D Deficiency
When an individual does not get or absorb enough vitamin d, this is called vitamin D deficiency. This can be caused by environmental factors, pollution, spending more time inside, working long hours at the office or just not enough sun.
If you think and feel like you're not getting enough vitamin D it is important to see your family doctor.
How About Supplements?
If you are having a hard time getting your daily dose of vitamin D or if you are afraid of getting too much sun exposure; then vitamin d supplements might be for you.
However, too much vitamin D can be toxic for your health, so it is a good idea to check with your doctor before introducing vitamin D supplements into your diet.
How Much Do You Need?
- Children and teens: 600 IU
- Adults up to 70 years: 600IU
- Over 70 years: 800 IU
IMPORTANT NOTE: The above information is intended to increase awareness of health information and does not suggest treatment or diagnosis. This information is not a substitute for individual medical attention and should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. See your health care professional for medical advice and treatment.
