July brings peak hours of hot sun for us in the Midwest, which provides ample opportunities for safe, sun exposure to boost vitamin D absorption. In contrast, with winter often comes the need to supplement vitamin D. We frequently associate vitamin D with bone health because when assimilated in our bodies, it helps to keep our bones strong and our system appropriately absorbing calcium and phosphorous. Adequate amounts of magnesium are important to convert vitamin D into its active form. Magnesium’s top food sources include spinach, swiss chard, dark chocolate, dried pumpkin seeds, and almonds. (1)
While these associations may be common (in large part due to various milk advertising campaigns), a growing understanding demonstrates that “at least 1,000 different genes governing virtually every tissue in the body are now thought to be regulated by 1,25 dihydroxyvitamin D3 (1,25 <OH>D), the active form of the vitamin, including several involved in calcium metabolism and neuromuscular and immune system functioning (2). This knowledge motivates better regulation of vitamin D exposure.
When vitamin D, available through sun exposure is not enough, (which may be indicated by drawn lab values), food sources aid the supply with fatty fish, beef liver, egg yolks and cheese. While still utilizing a natural sunscreen, (avoid parabens on the ingredient label), seek to get at least 20 minutes of exposure per day and take advantage of the extended benefits of being outside for fresh air! Additionally, stop in River's Edge this month to pick up a calcium/magmesium blend that helps protect us from osteoporosis as we age and aids the bodies' vitamin D absorption. Happy safe-sunning!
While these associations may be common (in large part due to various milk advertising campaigns), a growing understanding demonstrates that “at least 1,000 different genes governing virtually every tissue in the body are now thought to be regulated by 1,25 dihydroxyvitamin D3 (1,25 <OH>D), the active form of the vitamin, including several involved in calcium metabolism and neuromuscular and immune system functioning (2). This knowledge motivates better regulation of vitamin D exposure.
When vitamin D, available through sun exposure is not enough, (which may be indicated by drawn lab values), food sources aid the supply with fatty fish, beef liver, egg yolks and cheese. While still utilizing a natural sunscreen, (avoid parabens on the ingredient label), seek to get at least 20 minutes of exposure per day and take advantage of the extended benefits of being outside for fresh air! Additionally, stop in River's Edge this month to pick up a calcium/magmesium blend that helps protect us from osteoporosis as we age and aids the bodies' vitamin D absorption. Happy safe-sunning!
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