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The Benefits of Vitamin D


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In addition to aiding in bone health, Vitamin D may prevent viruses from affecting our cells. We obtain Vitamin D from our diets as well as is consumed in our diets as well as made in the body. Vitamin D2 is manufactured by plants while Vitamin D3 is manufactured in our skin when exposed to ultraviolet-B (UVB) rays from sunlight. Since Vitamin D is made in the skin, it interacts with sunlight. Therefore, there is a natural tendency for many individuals to make less Vitamin D3 in the winter months. This can be compensated by consuming plant sources which synthesize Vitamin D2. Monterey mushrooms, for example are a great source of Vitamin D. It is important to continuously monitor our Vitamin D levels. Increasing our intake of Vitamin D during the winter months will aid the body in maintaining our Vitamin D levels and prevent the drop during the winter months.
According to Real-Depression-Help.com, decrease in sunlight exposure during the winter months can lead to or worsen mood disorders. This is due to the decreased absorption of vitamin D with a lower level of sunlight exposure. Studies have shown that a high dose of 4000 IU of vitamin D during the winter months can relieve depression, especially seasonal depression.
            The body needs vitamin D to absorb calcium.  Adequate calcium levels are linked with greater bone strength and may provide protection from hypertension, cancer, osteoporosis, and some autoimmune diseases. For this reason, calcium-containing foods are often fortified with Vitamin D2 and D3 to enhance calcium absorption.
            It is important to have your vitamin D levels checked regularly. According to USDA, The Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) per day is 600 IU per day for adults and children ages 9 to 70 years of age and the Tolerable Upper Intake Level is 4,000 IU. Prior to a vitamin D regiment in any high dose of vitamin D, it is important to be check with  a medical practitioner.

For Vitamin D containing recipes, please see montereymushrooms.com
Related post: At Need for a Little "D"

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