Vitamin D - the sunshine vitamin

November 19th, 2011 by Clare Hayes DipION FdSc MBANT CNHC Reg

It's that time of year again - winter is approaching and bringing with it its seasonal colds and flu.

But did you know Vitamin D is an important nutrient for immune health? AND the main source of vitamin D is from UVB exposure from sunlight. Food sources include oily fish, eggs and dairy products. However, the UK Food Standards Agency states that the typical daily intake of vitamin D from food contributed less than UVB exposure and is inadequate.

Deficiency is more common in obesity, the elderly, dark skinned people, the application of sunscreen, lack of exposure to sunlight and vegans.

As well as immune support vitamin D may help:
            -  regulate calcium metabolism and support bone health 
            -  have an antibacterial action
            -  support blood sugar balance 
            -  support cardiovascular health
 
A simple blood test can check your vitamin D status and should be done before high dose supplementation, as in excess can be toxic. This test may be available on the NHS, alternatively see a nutritional therapist who can arrange the test to be done privately.