Many people in gray, rainy Portland know that Vitamin D is important for mood support during the gray season. But vitamin D is essential for people all over the United States, and for So.Many.Reasons!
Take a look at the map below. If you live in any of the gray areas, that means that you live at a latitude that does not get enough sun exposure to make sufficient vitamin D.
Image from: https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/time-for-more-vitamin-d
Even if you were naked all summer, the gray areas simply do not get enough sunlight. Our bodies make vitamin D by having unbarriered skin exposed to sunlight.
Vitamin D is vitally important to our whole body health. The most well-known piece is that vitamin D is important for bone health. Vitamin D helps the body absorb calcium, which means stronger, healthier bones and less risk for osteoporosis & fractures.
But get this...
Having enough vitamin D means preventing cancer and autoimmune conditions. Research also shows that people who have cancer have a better outcomes when their vitamin D levels are healthy.
What is a healthy vitamin D level?
Many sources will say anything over 20-25 ng/mL, but in my practice, I recommend quite a bit higher to get all the maximum benefits.
Vitamin D levels of 50-100 ng/mL are considered robust enough to support bones, mood, prevent cardiovascular disease, cancer, and autoimmune conditions. Now that's what I call a bargain!
To know your vitamin D levels, you need a prescription from your doctor to get your blood drawn. Most insurances cover it, and it's incredibly important for your health. If you're in Oregon, give me a shout if you'd like your vitamin D tested, and we can set up an appointment!