The importance of Vitamin D

Hello everyone!
As a nutritionist, I wanted to talk to you today about the importance of supplementing with Vitamin D during the winter months, here in the UK.

Vitamin D is often referred to as the "sunshine vitamin" because it is produced in our bodies when our skin is exposed to sunlight. However, even on the sunniest of days in the UK, it is impossible to get enough Vitamin D from the sun alone.
This is due to the latitude of the UK, which means that the sun is not strong enough for our bodies to produce Vitamin D for much of the year. During the winter months, the shorter days and limited sun exposure only compound this issue. This is why supplementing with Vitamin D during these months is so important.

Some food sources of Vitamin D include fatty fish such as salmon and mackerel, egg yolks, and fortified foods such as milk and orange juice. However, it can be difficult to get enough Vitamin D from food alone, especially for those following a vegetarian or vegan diet.

Low levels of Vitamin D can result in symptoms such as fatigue, weak immune system, hormonal imbalances, and even a low mood. In addition, scientific studies have shown a relationship between low Vitamin D levels and an increased risk of cancer. This is why it's so important to make sure that you're getting enough of this essential nutrient.

As a nutritionist and functional medicine practitioner, I offer Vitamin D testing and injections to help my clients ensure that they're getting optimal levels of Vitamin D. It's important to note that the acceptable range for Vitamin D set by doctors is not necessarily the optimal range, and many people report feeling better and having improved health when they have optimal levels of Vitamin D.

For those following a vegetarian or vegan diet, it's especially important to pay attention to your Vitamin D levels. As part of my vegetarian and vegan health check, I can check your Vitamin D levels and make recommendations for supplements or fortified foods to help ensure that you're getting enough of this essential nutrient.

So, if you're feeling tired and run down this winter, consider supplementing with Vitamin D and make sure that you're getting enough of this essential nutrient for immune health, hormone balance, better energy and a balanced mood.