By now we have all heard about how important Vitamin D is to our immune systems. But did you know, that this time of year, levels tend to be the lowest?
Our bodies synthesize Vitamin D from exposure to UVB rays from the sun. However, UVB rays only make it to us when the sun is above the horizon by 35 degrees. For those of us lucky enough to live in San Jose, we can synthesize Vitamin D for MOST of the year from sun exposure, but not all. We need to supplement through the winter because we cannot get our daily dose from sun exposure!
This is part of the reason why 80% of Americans are Vitamin D deficient. Low levels of Vitamin D put you at a higher risk for illnesses such as diabetes, asthma, depression, heart disease, multiple sclerosis, hypertension, colds, and flu, including COVID. There is even a direct link between optimal vitamin D levels and reduced risk of cancer!
You can learn more in our previous article about Vitamin D and why it is so crucial in this article.
The big question is, do we still need to supplement?
The answer. That depends.
Are you getting outside every day between the hours of 10 am and 4 pm?
Or are you, like most of us, inside and at work or school?
When you are outside, how much of your skin is exposed?
Clothing stops our bodies’ ability to soak in those UVB rays.
Is your skin type more or less able to synthesize Vitamin D?
People with different complexions have different rates of Vitamin D synthesis. The darker your complexion, the slower you synthesize Vitamin D, and the more sun exposure you need. The lighter your complexion, the faster you synthesize.
How old are you?
As we age, our body’s synthesis ability slows down. By the time we are 50, it takes 2x as long as it did when we were kids.
In reality, most of us still need to supplement Vitamin D to keep our levels in the optimal range and reap its benefits such as having a stronger immune system, more efficient blood sugar regulation, increased dental health, increased bone health, increased cardiovascular health, and better weight control.
Experts agree that adults need about 5,000 IU’s and children need about 3,000 IU’s per day to maintain healthy levels. We carry the highest quality Vitamin D supplement that is coupled with both vitamin K, specifically K2, and MK-7 since they work better synergistically. Vitamins D and K are essential for optimal bone and blood vessel health and for maintaining the immune system in proper balance.
So get up, get outside today, and pick up your vitamin D at your next office visit!