Vitamin D

EcoHealth & Wellness would like to remind you that as spring is approaching that enjoying the sun can provide you with wonderful health benefits.  Exposure to sunlight enhances production of vitamin D in the skin, which is good for us as vitamin D is the most common deficiency in the U.S.

Vitamin D deficiency has been linked to increased risk for many common and serious diseases, including some common cancers, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and osteoporosis. Studies suggest that exposure to sunlight, which enhances the production of vitamin D in the skin, prevents many chronic diseases.

Vitamin D is essential for the formation, growth, and repair of bones. Vitamin D is necessary for normal calcium absorption and immune function. It also improves muscle strength and helps reduce inflammation.

For those of us with darker skin (more melanin) or if you consistently wear sun protection, longer exposure to the sun is necessary to recive the amount to be converted into vitamin D.