Supplement Spotlight: Vitamin D

Vitamin D

Vitamin D has been in the spotlight lately and for good reason. Also known as the sunshine vitamin, Vitamin D has an impressive resume of health benefits that you just can’t ignore.

But before we list the amazing health benefits, see if you experience any of the following symptoms. If so, you may have a Vitamin D deficiency.

Poor immunity (frequent colds and other viruses)
Depression
Brittle bones
Muscle Pain
Insomnia

These are just a few, but even if you don’t necessarily have these, you could still benefit from supplementing with Vitamin D. Check out some of the amazing health benefits:

It can seriously decrease your risk of getting the flu. Vitamin D plays an important role in strengthening our immune system and protecting us during cold and flu season. Some studies have shown it to be as effective as getting a flu shot (without the side effects).
It strengthens bones. Studies have shown that Vitamin D dramatically reduces the incidents of fractures and works in combination with calcium and magnesium for strong, healthy bones.
It combats depression. Study after study reveal that Vitamin D deficiency is linked with depression and blue moods. Supplementing with the vitamin can help boost serotonin levels, which in turn helps to boost moods.

Other studies are also finding that it helps to both balance hormones and protect against cancer.

Vitamin D is a fat soluble vitamin, so it’s important to take it with a meal that contains fat for better absorption. I recommend taking 1000 iu one to three times daily. Fore more therapeutic doses (such as 10,000 iu a day), it’s important to work with a qualified healthcare professional. They can easily test for a deficiency.

Solgar D3 Look for the D3 form (also listed as cholecalciferol) as it’s the most absorbable form. I like Solgar Vitamin D3, because you can choose between tablet, soft gel, or vegetable capsule depending on your preference.