Feeling achy, not “high off life”, mood has been lower than normal? There may be a reason why. Our body has the innate ability to let us know when something has gone awry. Behold the beauty of the human body!!! Vitamin D is an important fat soluble vitamin. Why do I see so many people deficient or lacking this nutrient, I pondered?
So, what are the causes of low Vitamin D?1
- Decreased intake or absorption (Dietary, bariatric surgery, pancreas insufficiency)
- Reduced sun exposure (pigmented skin or more melanin, inadequate sunlight exposure)
- Medications
- Organ damage (Renal failure, liver scarring)
These are some of the many causes as to why we lack this essential nutrient often.
So, why is Vitamin D so important?
Vitamin D plays an essential role to keep calcium and bone at a happy balance which in turn helps to reduce the risks of developing bone loss.
In 3 prospective studies of greater than 8000 individuals not depressed @baseline and followed up to 6 years, found an increased risk of depression with low Vitamin D.1
In addition, research has also suggested a possible relationship between Vitamin D deficiency and the vulnerability of depression. The belief is that this may be attributed to the role Vitamin D plays in brain spasticity (drawing or pulling affect) and nerve signaling throughout the brain.1
Sources of Vitamin D
- Fatty Fish-Tuna, Mackerel, Salmon
- Beef Liver
- Cheese
- Egg yolks
- Fortified foods with Vitamin D – like some dairy products, orange juice, cereals
- LET’S NOT FORGET SUNSHINE!
Although there is a recommended dose of this essential nutrient, the amount you may require can be dependent on outside factors. It is always important that you speak with your medical provider before supplementation.
- Source: Up-to-Date – Vitamin D food source; Vitamin D and depression; Complementary and alternative treatments to anxiety symptoms and disorders; Nutritional disorders