Vitamin D and colds?!?

Everyone is worried about Vitamin D.  Should we be?

The simple answer is yes.  If you don't think that you are getting your required amount, then have yourself tested.  It is a simple blood test.  You should be able to simply boost your levels daily by standing out side (without sunscreen!) for 20 minutes a day.

But what does Vitamin D do?  And why is it so darn important?

Well.  Immunologists are saying that "Vitamin D directly and favorably affects the cells of your immune system."  And when it comes to your immune system, Vitamins A and D take center stage to start and command the immune cells to fight bacteria, viruses, and fungi.

Vitamin D suppresses inflammation in sinuses and breathing membranes as well.

So where to get Vitamin D from?  Well Vitamin D is a fat soluble vitamin - meaning your body will keep some for reserves unlike our B Vitamins that need to be replenished daily through our food or supplements.  Cod liver oil is a great way to get Vitamin D.

Do NOT do store bought Vitamin D.  Studies have shown that synthetic or high doses of isolated vitamin D can cause calcification in your body. (Think kidney stones or hardened arteries!)  Your body uses nutrients  when they are consumed in their natural, raw state - with all the naturally occurring nutritional counterparts.  When consumed this way, they are more effective than synthetics and are safer.  So make sure you are receiving it from a whole food based supplement and the sun.