The Importance of Vitamin D

You have probably heard about Vitamin D by now. It’s being talked about more and more in the media and amongst nutrition experts. And, for very good reason.

This incredibly important nutrient is essential for health. Research suggests that it may have benefits such as improving immune function, preventing disease, reducing inflammation, boosting mood, building bones, and even easing muscle aches. But, it can be hard for many of us to get enough of it during certain times of the year.

The reason for this is simple; our bodies makes Vitamin D when we are exposed to sunlight. The sun is actually our greatest source of Vitamin D. So, that means during the winter months when it’s cold outside and we can’t expose our bodies to the sun, that we may not get the levels of Vitamin D from the sun that we need for our bodies to function optimally.

While the sun is the easiest way to get this nutrient, it isn't the only way.  Vitamin D can be obtained through some other sources as well.

Here are a few ways to get more Vitamin D:


1. Fatty Fish 
Fatty Fish like wild caught salmon, mackerel, cod, sardines and tuna (don’t overdo the tuna, however, because of the mercury) are full of Vitamin D. Buy these fish fresh or frozen, and of course wild caught, or pick up some that are packed in a can. 

2. Whole Eggs
Eggs, specifically egg yolks, are a great source of Vitamin D.  You’ll need to use the whole egg to get the highest levels of Vitamin D. There are other nutrients that are only found in the yolk of the egg, so if you are free of health conditions preventing you from doing otherwise, I recommend eating the whole egg (and look for organic, pasture-raised eggs).

3. Shiitake Mushrooms
Shiitake mushrooms are a great source of Vitamin D. Buy them fresh when you can, but dried shiitakes are available in most stores as well.  They are great to toss into soups, or added into any of your main course meals for extra flavoring. 

4. Vitamin D Supplement
I take USANA Health Sciences’ pharmaceutical quality Vitamin D supplement year round.  USANA’s products are science based, safe and effective. If you’re interested in more information about their products, contact me here.  Or email me directly.