3 Reasons You Need More Vitamin D and Sunlight
In our journey of health restoration, we place a strong emphasis on the body’s natural ability to heal and thrive. One of the crucial elements that help our bodies perform at their best is Vitamin D, often referred to as the “sunlight vitamin”. As holistic therapists, we recognize the importance of this essential nutrient in maintaining overall health and wellness. Here are three compelling reasons why you need more Vitamin D and sunlight.
1. Brain Health and Mood Enhancement
Did you know that our mood can be significantly influenced by Vitamin D levels in our body? As a matter of fact, Vitamin D plays a crucial role in serotonin production, a neurotransmitter responsible for maintaining mood balance. Inadequate Vitamin D levels, prevalent in about 70% of the U.S. population, can hamper this process, potentially leading to mood disorders, including depression.
Holistic therapy often emphasizes the importance of spending time outdoors in the sun, the most effective way our bodies can manufacture Vitamin D. This simple yet profound act can increase serotonin levels, thereby uplifting mood and contributing to overall brain health.
2. Bone Health
Vitamin D is essential for the absorption of calcium and other minerals in our body. This process is critical for building and maintaining strong bones and reducing the risk of conditions like osteoporosis. It’s not uncommon for breastfed infants to be prescribed Vitamin D supplements, as human breastmilk may not provide adequate amounts of this crucial nutrient. This supplementation helps prevent conditions like rickets, characterized by weak or soft bones in children. Whether it’s through diet, supplements, or sunlight exposure, Vitamin D is a non-negotiable factor for bone health.
3. Inflammation Reduction and Immune Health
Increasing research suggests that Vitamin D plays a significant role in immune system function. From reducing pregnancy complications to lowering the risk of respiratory infections in children, the benefits of Vitamin D in bolstering immunity are profound. Moreover, Vitamin D is known for its anti-inflammatory properties. By reducing oxidative stress on cells, it can help decrease inflammation, potentially improving mental health, particularly in children, due to its neurohormonal effects. This is an especially relevant aspect of health restoration, where we focus on a holistic approach to well-being, recognizing the intricate interplay between physical and mental health.
Final Thoughts
Ensuring adequate Vitamin D intake is not a one-size-fits-all proposition, as each person’s Vitamin D needs can be influenced by factors such as age, skin pigmentation, and sun exposure. As a general rule, experts suggest 5-30 minutes of daily sun exposure on the face, arms, and hands. However, it’s important to balance this with appropriate sun protection measures, as excessive UV exposure can lead to skin damage and increased cancer risk.
A balanced diet incorporating Vitamin D-rich foods like salmon, fortified cereals, and milk can also contribute to meeting our Vitamin D needs. Supplementation might be a helpful option in some cases, particularly during winter or for those with limited sun exposure. At iHealth Restoration, we provide a range of holistic services in Plymouth, MI, designed to promote health restoration from the inside out. We believe in the body’s natural ability to heal and balance itself when provided with the right environment and resources. Our services include nutritional response testing, purification, and detoxification, emotional center point release, sound therapy, craniosacral therapy, and hair analysis assessment. These holistic therapies are tailored to meet your individual needs, promoting a state of overall health and wellness.