Also known as the ‘sunshine’ vitamin, Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin that keeps you, your bones, and your immune system healthy. It is produced naturally by your body when your skin is exposed to sunlight and it can also be found in some foods and drinks. Without vitamin D, your immune system could begin to suffer and your bones could lose density and strength, increasing your risk of fractures. Up to 4 in 10 people have a vitamin D deficiency and many of these cases are because we spend so much of our time indoors these days. Vegans and those with milk allergies are also more likely to have a vitamin D deficiency.

While extended exposure to the sun poses its own health risks, it’s important to try to get at least a few minutes a day of direct sunlight to keep your body functioning properly.

Benefits of Vitamin D

One of the most important functions of vitamin D is keeping your bones and teeth strong. People with high vitamin D levels experience less bone density loss and are at a lower risk of developing osteoporosis, brittle bones, and bone fractures. Vitamin D also helps regulate insulin levels, supports heart and respiratory health, and boosts the function of your immune and central nervous symptoms.

Vitamin D may also play a role in the prevention and treatment of conditions like type 1 diabetes, type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and multiple sclerosis (MS).

Vitamin D Deficiency

If you have your vitamin D levels checked and it is discovered that you have a deficiency, you’ll need to take steps to boost your vitamin D levels. Otherwise you are at risk for several different conditions and diseases, including ones that can be life-threatening such as heart disease, asthma, dementia, and cancer.

The symptoms of a vitamin D deficiency may not be easy to notice, especially at first, but symptoms can include:

• Bone pain and weakness
• Muscle weakness
• Frequent illnesses and infections
• Wounds that heal slowly
• Weight gain
• Fatigue
• Hair loss
• Depression and anxiety

Sources of Vitamin D

In addition to sunlight, vitamin D can be found in some food and drinks. Certain types of fish are especially good sources, such as salmon, perch, swordfish, sardines, and tuna. Egg yolks and some mushrooms also contain vitamin D. Also look for foods and beverages that are fortified with vitamin D, like orange juice, milk, and cereals.

Vegetable sources of Vitamin D include leafy greens like:

• Spinach
• Okra
• Soybeans
• Kale

All of these vegetables are also a great source of calcium, giving your bones even more to work with.

Vitamin D Supplements

If you aren’t able to get enough vitamin D from sunshine or diet, you can take supplements to boost your vitamin D levels. Supplements are an easy way to get many of the vitamins and nutrients into your diet that you may not be able to get otherwise.

Boost your health and buy supplements like Redoxon and Valupak Capsules and Tablets online from our website. We are one of the UK’s most trusted pharmacies and can have your medications and supplements conveniently shipped right to your doorstep.