If you tend to hibernate during the winter, you may not be getting enough Vitamin D. Your body produces the vitamin when it’s exposed to direct sunlight, but taking a nap by a sunny window doesn’t count. The sun’s beneficial elements are blocked by the glass and don’t get to your skin. Luckily, sun exposure isn’t the only way to get this beneficial vitamin. Other sources include food and supplements.
Foods that naturally contain Vitamin D include fatty fish, such as tuna and salmon. Beef liver and egg yolks provide some Vitamin D. Vitamin D is fortified in foods such as milk, cereal, orange juice and yogurt. Check the nutritional labels.
Supplements are a good source of the vitamin. However, it should be noted that Vitamin D is fat soluble, meaning it needs a little fat in order for it to be absorbed by your body. It’s recommended to take the supplement with a meal. Before you take any supplement, be sure to ask your health care provider if it is right for you.
Vitamin D plays several key roles in your body’s overall health, including helping it absorb calcium and boosting your immune system. It also helps nerves relay messages from the brain. A simple blood test can measure your Vitamin D levels.
To find out if you are Vitamin D deficient:
- Via Christi Health will offer Vitamin D screening for $30 at the Green Acres Market Health Fair, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 28, 8141 E. 21st St. in Bradley Fair.
- AMS Labs offers walk-in Vitamin D screenings for $25. AMS Labs is located at 2916 E. Central in Wichita, Kan.
- Ask your health care provider if they offer Vitamin D screenings.
