Vitamin D plays an essential role in the health of both our bones and our teeth in addition to many providing many other benefits. Not many foods contain vitamin D and the body requires sunshine to ensure its creation. So, what to do when the days get shorter and the sun becomes increasingly scarce?
The sun often gets a bad rap with respect to skin health. However, enjoying a nice sunny day is great for your morale and to replenish your vitamin D levels.
Also known as the 'sunshine vitamin', vitamin D has an essential role to play in the body's use of calcium, in muscle function and in cell growth. Studies also suggest that vitamin D may be effective in preventing certain cancers, diabetes and diseases involving the immune system.
Finally, vitamin D is thought to play a role in protecting against heart disease. It is likely that in the coming years more studies will highlight its many health benefits.
Humans of all ages need to get enough calcium and vitamin D to maintain bone health. Osteoporosis is a disease characterised by progressive bone fragility leading to an increased risk of fractures. The best way to prevent osteoporosis is to make sure you get enough calcium and vitamin D.
WHERE IS VITAMIN D FOUND? The main source of vitamin D is from exposure to the sun. For a healthy adult, 10 to 15 minutes of sun exposure of the hands, forearms and face are sufficient to provide an adequate amount of vitamin D to a healthy adult. The frequency of exposure should be two to three times a week, between 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM, from April to October. However, prolonged sun exposure may be associated with an increased risk of skin cancer, so we suggest using adequate SPF lotion for protection.
Furthermore, certain foods are rich in vitamin D, for example:
- Salmon (grilled, poached or canned);
- Grilled red tuna;
- Herring;
- Cow's milk;
- Fortified soy and rice drinks;
- Margarine;
- Egg yolks.
Vitamin D is essential to your health and it's easy to meet your daily requirements through sun exposure, food or supplements.
Treat your teeth and bones to the vitamin D they need! They'll thank you by staying loyal for years to come!
