I have to confess, I love the way being out in the sun makes me feel. Although residing in the sunshine state means loading up on sunscreen every day, the year-round sun and warm temperatures are that prime reasons I adore living in Miami. And, while limiting UV ray exposure is vital to the skin, it turns out that one benefit of its rays is vitamin D. Playing a pretty big role in our overall health, vitamin D has recently been given even more props, making it in some ways one of the most valuable players in the vitamin world. Here’s what you need to know about Vitamin D:
- Known as the “sunshine vitamin,” it’s produced by our bodies as our skin’s response to sunlight. Don’t forget, a little sun exposure goes a long way! Just ten sunny minutes a day will give you the boost you need.
- Vitamin D’s importance is often underrated, not only does it support bone health and balance, it helps prevent seasonal disorders, depression and a host of other illnesses.
- If you spend extended amounts of time indoors (ahem…polar vortex!), you can also get vitamin D through certain foods like egg yolks, shrimp, milk, salmon, orange juice, yogurt and cereal.
- Regulates absorption of phosphorous and calcium, while keeping the immune system functioning.
- If you think you aren’t getting enough vitamin D, consider trying a multivitamin or a vitamin D supplement, but be sure to talk to your doctor about what’s best for you.
It’s definitely important to find a balance of too much sun exposure and not enough; do you think you’re getting enough vitamin D?
