A note on vitamin D

Vitamin D. Hormone D. The sunshine vitamin.

Although it’s commonly known as a vitamin, vitamin D is technically a hormone. It is synthesised in the skin when we are kissed by the sun, and activated in the liver and kidneys. Even when it's obtained from the very limited sources of food, it must be transformed by the body before it can perform its magic.

You might know it best for its role in bone strength (by helping absorb calcium and deposit it into our bones) - but this is a fraction of the important job vitamin D has. It regulates more than 200 genes in our body…supporting brain function, thyroid, wound healing, immunity, protecting lung and heart health, insulin regulation, improves cell differentiation (protecting against cancer), the list truly goes on. Low vitamin D can present as muscle pain, fatigue, low mood, inability to get well and stay well, weight gain, mood swings. Absorption may be inhibited by certain medications, digestive disorders, inflammatory states…

Food sources - in small amounts, vitamin D is found in foods such as organ meats, eggs, mackerel, and cod liver oil.

The BEST source of vitamin D? Exposing your bare skin to the sun each day for at least fifteen minutes. No windscreens, no sunblock.

Supplementing - it is worth checking your vitamin D levels on your next blood test if you live in colder climates, or have little sunlight exposure. Supplementing may be appropriate for some, in conjunction with other synergistic nutrients and minerals such as magnesium or calcium. Consult first.