The importance of vitamin D
Vitamin D is one of the most important vitamins we need to lead healthy lives. Every cell in our body has a receptor for vitamin D, which actually makes it more like a hormone than a vitamin. Vitamin D has a few different roles within the body but its main function is helping to regulate the amount of calcium and phosphate in the body; the nutrients needed to keep bones, teeth and muscles healthy.
However, recent research has also shown strong links between vitamin D levels and COVID outcomes. Those with low levels of vitamin D are more likely to suffer more serious COVID symptoms and outcomes compared to those with healthy levels of vitamin D.
How do you get vitamin D in the body?
Vitamin D is found in a small number of foods including:
- oily fish – such as salmon, sardines, herring and mackerel
- red meat
- liver
- egg yolks
- fortified foods – such as some fat spreads and breakfast cereals
But while we can get some vitamin D from our diet, the main source is sunlight exposure on the skin. However, in the UK, the sun is only strong enough to stimulate vitamin D production in the skin 3 to 4 months a year, typically from May through August. With that in mind, the Government advises everyone to consider supplementing vitamin D from October-March to help keep bones and muscles healthy.
Vitamin D deficiency
The National Diet and Nutrition Survey shows that about 1 in 6 adults in the UK have low levels of vitamin D in their blood – which is why it’s recommended that we take measures to increase our vitamin D levels.
Vitamin D deficiency can lead to a loss of bone density, which can contribute to osteoporosis and fractures. If you have low levels of vitamin D you may experience lower back pain, bone pain in the shoulder, ribs, pelvis, or legs; muscle pain and weakness; waddling gait; and impaired physical function.
People at risk of vitamin D deficiency
Some people simply cannot make enough vitamin D from sunlight because they have very little or no sunshine exposure, these include those that are:
- not often outdoors – for example those who are disabled or chronically ill
- usually wear clothes that cover up most of their skin when outdoors
- from an African, African-Caribbean or south Asian background – you may also not make enough vitamin D from sunlight because of your dark skin
Do you still need to supplement vitamin D in the summer?
If you fall into the categories above then we would recommend that you increase your vitamin D levels even within the summer months. And, even if you don’t fall into one of these categories, it’s still a good idea. We often overestimate the time we spend outside in pure sunlight and many of us will be entering the season with a deficit. Additionally, many of us wear sunscreen or use clothing to block out harmful rays.
One of the best ways to increase your vitamin D levels is through an IV infusion. Our Revitalised NAD+ Immunity Package is filled with high dose vitamins including Vitamin C, Vitamin D and all your essential B-vitamins to help you feel your best all year round.
Contact the clinic to find out more.
