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January 3, 2009
Getting Enough Vitamin D
More time indoors and fewer daylight hours mean less exposure to the sun’s rays that can help our bodies produce adequate amounts of vitamin D. Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin that helps control levels of calcium and phosphorus in the blood to help the body build and maintain strong bones and teeth. It also increases the absorption of calcium. Some studies suggest that inadequate blood levels of vitamin D can contribute to the development of obesity.
Many people don’t get 400 International Units (IUs), the current daily value for vitamin D. Because many experts urge even more than that to protect against everything from osteoporosis, hypertension, cancer, and autoimmune diseases, it’s wise to up your consumption of vitamin D-rich foods.
Good sources include fish such as sardines or tuna (canned in oil); skim milk; and fortified foods such as margarine and ready-to-eat cereal. If you eat few of these foods, or want more vitamin D than your diet can provide, discuss whether you should take supplements with your physician.
Posted by Lisa at January 3, 2009 11:07 AM
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