Vitamin D. The Sunshine Vitamin
We all know that vitamin D is essential for strong bones so it's no surprise that the team at Shaftesbury Chiropractic are very keen that you are getting enough.
But how much is enough?
I decided to take a home test to see what my levels are. Results below!
Vitamin D is something we produce naturally. All we need is sunlight on our skin. So far so good - I love the sun! However, in the winter months there is not enough sun in the UK to make vitamin D. There are also lots of other reasons you might not be getting enough:
You spend a lot of time inside. People spend much more time inside nowadays and miss out on available sunlight.
You're over 50. Sadly we get less efficient at making vitamin D as we get older.
You have naturally dark skin. The darker your skin, the more sunlight you need to make vitamin D.
You've put on a few pounds. If you are heavier than you should be you need to increase your levels of vitamin D.
Because one of the side affects of a lack of Vitamin D is feeling low or depressed, this is why winter months can seem a bit of a struggle. Low levels of vitamin D are also linked to
Fatigue
Not sleeping well
Heart health
Hair loss
Your immune system.
Vitamin D is so important it is crucial you are getting enough. I take 1000iu a day of vitamin D in the winter and love to spend time outside in the sun.
So what were the results of my test?
At 68nmol/L I was just in the low range. So you might be too.
(Low 30-74, Sufficient 75-124, Optimal 125-199)
The good news is that you can boost your vitamin D levels easily with supplements (we have some in the clinic).I have increased my daily intake to 4000iu day for 3 months and will retest in May.
We all work together, so if one of us is away or fully booked, one of the other team members will take great care of you.
If you feel you've overdone it and want to discuss a niggle or a twinge, call us on 01747 851455. Or email me at hello@shaftesburychiropractic.co.uk
All the best,
The team at Shaftesbury Chiropractic
