Vitamin D and Winter Immune Health

I know I normally post inspirational quotes and scriptures; however, today I'm going to share my other passion....Health!

Have you ever wondered why Cold and Flu viruses rise during the winter months? Or why people experience higher rates of depression during the autumn/winter? The link to both of these issues as well as other commonly experienced problems is a Vitamin D Deficiency.

During the Winter months we often experience shorter days and reduced sunlight. One natural source of vitamin D is indeed 'Sunlight'. Before delving into deeper research a correlation is already noticed.

What is Vitamin D?:
Vitamin D is a fat soluble vitamin mainly found in two forms, vitamin D2 or ergocalciferol and vitamin D3 or cholecalciferol. It is primarily responsible for maintaining the level of calcium and potassium in the body by facilitating their absorption. Therefore, vitamin D is crucial for bone growth and repair. It also strengthens the immune system and inhibits the secretion of parathyroid hormone. It is mainly produced in the skin with the help of ultraviolet radiation of sunlight. So the synthesis of vitamin D in the skin is determined by a number of factors including season, geography, smog, cloud cover and the time of the day, all of which can affect the exposure to sunlight. Liver is the main storage organ for vitamin D.

Common causes of Vitamin D Deficiency are:
Poor nutritional intake (malnutrition); inadequate intake of fruits and vegetables, excessive drinking and smoking, overuse of medications, and prolonged oxidative stress.


Symptoms of Vitamin D Deficiency:
Deficiency of vitamin D in children can cause rickets, which is characterized by retarded growth and deformation of the skull, while in adults it causes osteomalacia. Osteomalacia is characterized by weak bones, bone pain, bone softening and muscle pain. Vitamin D deficiency can also cause periodontal diseases, chronic fatigue, irritability, headache, migraine, brittle nails and dizziness. In addition to these, it is associated with high blood pressure, tuberculosis and depression.

Food Sources of Vitamin D:
Milk and dairy products, egg yolk, salmon, mackerel, tuna, sardines, fish liver oil (Omega's), soy, Chinese cabbage, seaweed, broccoli, mustard, molasses, cane sugar, legumes, beans, almonds, oranges, and supplements (for those on the go).

Environmental Sources of Vitamin D:
Sunlight!!!!

Disclaimer: I am not a Doctor; however, I took some time to research this topic and truly hope that the above information can educate us all during the winter months.

-Biron