Vitamin D, probably something most of us never even think about. But why is it so significant? Everyone needs it to grow strong and healthy; sunlight provides it. If the body is lacking, it can cause many health problems, from soft bones to rickets.
Contrary to popular belief, the sun is actually good for you. By avoiding it, you’re depriving the body of this vital nutrient – Vitamin D. It is essential as it regulates calcium absorption from the gastrointestinal system.
Research suggests that Vitamin D deficiencies can cause many health problems. Among these problems are muscle aches, weakness, and bone pain in people of all ages. In children, it can cause rickets and muscle spasms.
I can speak from personal experience because I have a Vitamin D deficiency. My muscles constantly ache. I have bone and back pain. I constantly feel tired, which causes me to have low energy levels. After my doctor prescribed me 50000IUs per week, I am feeling a million times better!
What Else Does Vitamin D Do
This essential vitamin helps maintain serum calcium and phosphate levels and prevents soft bone diseases. It helps the body’s bones to grow strong and aids in bone remodeling. It also helps promote normal mineral growth in the bone.
Taking calcium with Vitamin D is important because they need each other to work together. Calcium helps build and maintain your bones and Vitamin D helps your body absorb calcium. They prevent osteoporosis that so many older adults get as they age.
How To Obtain Vitamin D
Sunlight is the main source of all living things that provides this vitamin. The UVB rays synthesize vitamin D in people’s skin. Only a few foods supply this vitamin naturally, but some of those that do are salmon, mackerel, tuna, or sardines. Another source is milk and other dairy products, along with egg yolks, beef, and fish liver.
Some foods have vitamin D added to the list of ingredients. Then, there are supplements to take that help to maintain a healthy level. You can try one of these egg recipes to help boost your Vitamin D intake!
How Much Do People Need
The amount that everyone needs is different, but a lot depends upon the age of a person. Most health professionals agree that people should take between 400 IU and 4000 IU of vitamin D every day.
There is a risk of taking too much, but the human body will tell when this happens with symptoms of nausea, heart rhythm abnormalities, and kidney stones. If you take more than 2000 IU per day, consult a doctor first.
If you think you have taken too much, a doctor can do a blood test to check the levels of calcium and phosphate in the blood.
One thing all health care professionals advise and agree upon is to avoid burning your skin if you spend time outside. Most would rather take supplements. which is essential, for people who live in the north where the weather gets cold, they cannot get outside very much.
Tests for Vitamin D Levels
Before starting any supplemental regimen of vitamins, you should be tested by a doctor to see what your levels are, not only of Vitamin D, but other crucial vitamins. To get the most benefits, you need calcium and magnesium, as they all work together to produce the best results. Knowing what your numbers are will be beneficial in helping you move forward with your optimum health and diet plans.
What ways do you incorporate Vitamin D into your life?