News about the sunshine vitamin isn’t quite so sunny these days as vitamin D deficiencies are on the rise.
Why is vitamin D deficiency more common now?
Our bodies need exposure to ultraviolet-B rays (UVB) to stimulate vitamin D production in our skin. But increased use of sunscreen to prevent skin cancer, reduced participation in outdoor activities, and air pollution have all . The consensus in the medical community is that skin cancer prevention is necessary, so getting additional vitamin D through food and supplements is the best option.
Vitamin D is essential to our health!
- Contributes to bone formation and strength by helping the body absorb calcium and phosphorous.
- Plays an important role in our immune and muscle functions and helps our brain communicate to the nervous system.
- Recent studies have shown higher vitamin D intake helped prevent .
How much vitamin D do we need daily?
- Infants up to 1 year: 400 IU or 10 mcg
- Children 1-18: 600 IU or 15 mcg
- Adults 19-69: 600 IU or 15 mcg
- Adults 70 and older: 800 IU or 20 mcg
Good Vitamin D Sources
- Fresh fish, especially rainbow trout and salmon
- Cod liver oil
- Beef or calf liver
- Egg yolks
- Fortified dairy products like milk and yogurt
- Fortified orange juice and breakfast cereal
Vitamin D supplements are an option, but consult with your doctor to get a prescription for vitamin D or before taking supplements.