Studies have shown that Vitamin D levels are lowest during winter months, the peak of flu season. Low levels of Vitamin D have been linked to increased parathyroid levels and depression, along with a plethora of other conditions and illnesses. So what is the recommended intake of Vitamin D? For adults it can be anywhere between 400-4000 IU per day depending on levels, skin type, location, or exposure to direct sunlight. Vitamin D status can be determined by measuring blood levels.
How to improve your Vitamin D status – sunshine, vitamin-D rich foods, and supplements. To break it down, the body needs sun exposure 10-30 minutes a day, several days a week, in order to produce an optimal benefit. You can find vitamin D in foods such as sockeye salmon (794 IU), Tuna in oil (30z = 229 IU), OJ (1 cup = 142 IU), cereals, milk, and whole eggs. But the most effective & quickest method of leveling your vitamin D is through supplements.
Vitamin D plays a huge role in promoting cell growth, building our immune function, and in reducing inflammation. Taking D in the winter is an incredible idea – especially as an athlete where muscle deterioration, soreness, inflammation, and sickness can affect our training. Just the other day a patient came in after taking vitamin D3 for 2 weeks, pronouncing, “You haven’t taken your vitamin D yet? Get on that! I feel so much better.” I think that in the Northwest we assume it is just what it is, but really, there’s something we can about our seasonal depression, overall outlook on life, and general health – it’s being D-conscious!
– Courtney
Noble Chiropractic, C.A.