When many people think of Vitamin D, images of sunlight are conjured. However, the shorter and colder days associated with the winter months might render obtaining this essential nutrient difficult. Fortunately, Vitamin D is accessible during the wintertime provided individuals adhere to the following suggestions:
Spend Some Time Outside
Granted, this might not be plausible when the temperatures are excessively cold and inclement weather conditions are present. That said, on mild, sunny days, individuals are encouraged to spend time outdoors. Thankfully, only 20 to 30 minutes of skin exposure to sunlight a few times per week will provide enough Vitamin D necessary to avoid deficiencies.
Consume Mushrooms
Mushrooms are the only plant-based product that contains appreciable concentrations of Vitamin D. Many people do not find these products appealing or tasty. That said, consuming them several times per winter will decrease one’s chances of becoming Vitamin D deficient.
Eat Vitamin D-Laden Foods
While there is not an overabundance of foods containing the nutrient, a fair amount exists. Foods and beverages containing appreciable quantities of Vitamin D include milk, orange juice, regular milk, soy milk, avocados, eggs, butter, and fatty fish like salmon.
Ingest Cod Liver Oil
Cod liver oil is not typically known for its taste. However, this product contains more Vitamin D than most other items. For those who cannot bear to swallow the liquid form, capsuled supplements are typically available.
Take Dietary Supplement
Dietary supplements containing only Vitamin D and those of which the nutrient is part of a multivitamin preparation are readily available for purchase at supermarkets, drug store chains, nutritional supplement establishments, and online.
In many cases, multi-vitamin supplements will provide sufficient quantities. That said, individuals with certain health conditions, especially digestive problems or disorders that inhibit proper absorption of vitamins and other nutrients, might wish to consider a product containing only Vitamin D.
The Importance Of Vitamin D
Many might believe such thoughts are hokum; however, the absence of sunlight some people might experience during the winter could precipitate Vitamin D deficiencies if they do not obtain a sufficient amount from other sources. A lack of the vitamin could increase one’s chances of developing potentially serious illnesses such as cardiovascular problems, osteoporosis, certain kinds of cancer, Alzheimer’s Disease and diabetes.