Your body requires many vitamins and minerals to function and keep you feeling healthy. Vitamin D is one of them! Vitamin D is found in food, made from sunlight, and is also sold as a supplement. If you’re wondering about Vitamin D, or how to boost it, this article is for you.
Research has shown, 18% of people in the U.S. are at risk of inadequate vitamin D, and 5% have a vitamin D deficiency. You are most at risk for low vitamin D if you:
Check with your dietitian about how to get more vitamin D from your diet, ask your doctor to test your vitamin D levels, and talk with your doctor before starting any supplements. Having adequate vitamin D is important for keeping you healthy, happy, and active.
Adequate Vitamin D reduces your risk of:
Vitamin D also promotes healthy bones, fights off infections, reduces inflammation, and helps to regulate blood glucose levels.
If you don’t have enough Vitamin D in your body, you may be at risk of :
Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin found in food, available as a dietary supplement, and produced when sunlight hits your skin. In the U.S., most people consume less than the recommended amount of vitamin D. A 2013–2016 survey found that 94% of people consumed less than the estimated vitamin D requirement from food and beverages. Since most people do not eat and drink enough vitamin D, they must also meet their needs with sunlight.
You may be wondering how much vitamin D you need. The recommended daily intake is 15 mcg/d or 600 IU for ages 1-70. If you are pregnant or nursing you may need more.
Your body needs vitamin D to maintain bone and muscle strength, and also fight infections. Increase this essential nutrient by going outdoors and staying active. Eat a balanced diet, including vitamin D rich foods. Not all supplements are safe, and most nutrients occur naturally in foods! Have your vitamin D levels checked regularly, and speak to your doctor and registered dietitian if your levels are low.