The Benefits of Sunshine and Vitamin D

As a young woman, I suffered from Seasonal Affective Disorder. I didn't know what was causing my migraines, tunnel vision, and sudden onset of fatigue. But once I moved to sunny California, I learned that getting my Vitamin D was super important. I spent so much time soaking up the California sunshine because I took public transit and walked everywhere. My mood didn’t change in the wintertime. I felt so good. But I was young and didn't know what was causing this change.

As soon as I moved back home, however, I felt the effects of low vitamin d creeping in. My migraines returned with a vengeance, my mood was all jacked up, and I knew something was wrong. There were a couple of times I would be at work and all of a sudden I could barely see my hand in front of my face. Once, I got sent home to go to the emergency room because I looked like I was going to pass out. Thankfully, now that I'm older and wiser, I know how to get my Vitamin D fix even when the weather isn't cooperating! 

Vitamin D is an important nutrient that helps our bodies absorb calcium, which is essential for strong bones and teeth. It also supports our immune system and helps regulate cell growth. According to Harvard Health Publishing, Vitamin D can also help prevent osteoporosis, hypertension (high blood pressure), cancer, and other chronic diseases. 

Most people get their daily recommended dose of vitamin D through sunlight exposure (UVB rays convert cholesterol in our skin into vitamin D). However, this isn't always possible or practical, especially during the winter months when the sun isn't out as much. That's why it's important to get your vitamin D through other means such as supplements, food sources, or fortified foods such as milk or orange juice. I love my Vitamin D spray. It's so easy to take on the go, and I even use it when I notice my mood fluctuating. 

If you're feeling run down or experiencing any strange health issues, it might be worth checking your vitamin D levels. A simple blood test can determine if you're deficient in this important nutrient. And if you are deficient, don't worry! There are plenty of ways to get your daily dose of vitamin D—you just have to be proactive about it. Spend some time outside in the sunshine or eat foods that are rich in vitamin D (or both!). Your body will thank you for it!

Have you had your vitamin D levels checked?