Fill up on these foods rich in vitamin D and reap the health benefits.
If you are not clued up on vitamin D, then now’s the time as this essential vitamin is crucial for a multitude of bodily functions.
Particularly as the UK has one of the highest levels of vitamin D deficiency in Europe.
It is often dubbed the ‘sunshine vitamin’ thanks to the fact that vitamin D is naturally derived from sunlight. However, in the UK’s atumn and winter months, when the days are short and sunshine is limited, our natural vitamin D levels can suffer.
So, why do we need vitamin D? And most importantly, how can we ensure we are getting enough?
What Are The Benefits Of Vitamin D?
There are many benefits and functions of Vitamin D.
It contributes to normal absorption and utilisation of calcium and phosphate. This in turn helps help keep bones, teeth, and muscles healthy. Vitamin D also contributes to normal blood calcium levels
Vitamin D contributes to the normal function of immune system. A healthy immune system is important all year round.
What Happens If I Don’t Get Enough Vitamin D In My Diet?
Low vitamin D levels in children can affect the healthy development of bones as vitamin D is needed for the normal growth and development of bones.
In adults, low vitamin D can also affect bone and muscle health.
How Much Vitamin D Do I Need Each Day?
The UK Department of Health recommend everyone takes a daily supplement of 10 micrograms (μg) of vitamin D, especially during the autumn and winter.
In the UK, between April to the end of September, most people can fulfil this vitamin D quota from sunlight on their skin. However, as mentioned above, during the darker months, this is not so easy.
In fact, between October through to March, our vitamin D must be acquired through food and/or supplementation.
Interestingly, adults over 60 could benefit from a daily vitamin D intake of 20µg, to help reduce the risk of falls associated with postural instability and muscle weakness.
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