Great question!
Sunlight is the best source of Vitamin D however unless you are lucky enough to be living close to the equator, chances are that over the winter months you will be lacking in Vitamin D. This is because you are exposed to less UVB (ultraviolet B radiation) light, consequently making it harder for your body to synthesise, or produce, Vitamin D.
Adequate levels of Vitamin D are essential for a healthy functioning immune system and the absorption of calcium, so it makes sense to top these levels up over the winter months. It’s been said that there is no cold or flu season, but rather a Vitamin D deficient season. Some signs that you may be lacking include poor bone and tooth formation, gum inflammation, bowed legs, cramps, recurrent infections or sickness, and allergies.
So, what can we do? As always, we first take a look at what we are eating.
Plant-based foods contain Vitamin D2, Animal-based foods contain Vitamin D3. Vitamin D3 is easier for the body to use.
Foods containing Vitamin D include:
-organic egg yolks
-organic meat
-sun-exposed mushrooms
-oily fish (sardines, herring, mackerel, wild salmon)
Over the winter months keep these foods on your weekly shopping list. And whenever you see the sun, roll up your sleeves and catch as much as you can!
(An additional supplement may also be of benefit. If you are concerned about your levels, your Doctor or Nutritionist can arrange a blood test to check if that is needed.)
