There is a lot of buzz about vitamin D and how crucial it is to maintaining good health.  Most researchers say that it is vital for bone health, will help prevent osteoporosis, and more information is coming out regarding maintaining the body’s immunity.  Also, some studies suggest there is a link between the deficiency of vitamin D and increased risk of developing heart disease and some cancers.

Vitamin D has been called the “sunshine vitamin” meaning that we get enough from being outside in the sun.  With our lifestyles today, not having the time, not wanting to be exposed to the ultra-violet rays of the sun, most of us are not getting enough.  We can get it naturally through some foods which include cod liver oil, fatty fish, egg yolks and cheese.  Some of our foods are also fortified with this vitamin including milk and orange juice.  Again, these foods do not give us the amount our body needs to stay healthy.

Growing research has uncovered a direct relationship between low levels of vitamin D and atherosclerosis, a condition in which fatty material collects on the walls of the arteries.  Over time this can cause a heart attack.  Research also suggests that low levels of vitamin D may increase inflammation which we know is a factor in heart disease.

Getting outside for at least 15 minutes every day and eating those foods high in Vitamin D are essential for good health.  Finding the time to get outside can be a stretch and some of the foods that are recommended are high in calories and not the choice you want to make if you are watching your weight.  My husband and I have solved this problem by taking Vitamin D supplements.  We take at least 4,000 IU a day.  This is just one more preventative measure we can take to stay healthy as we age.