During the Coronavirus pandemic, it’s become more important than ever to focus on health. Yet many of us have struggled to maintain a normal wellness routine, while balancing virtual learning with work from home.
If you’re looking for a health boost, consider Vitamin D. A naturally produced hormone in the body, Vitamin D is crucial to our immune, brain and nervous systems. It has also been linked to a lower risk of viral respiratory tract infections.
Learn more about the benefits of Vitamin D, particularly during this global health crisis.
Illness Prevention
Past studies have shown a possible link between Vitamin D and decreased risk of influenza. More recently, researchers at the University of Chicago Medicine have found an association between Vitamin D deficiency and contracting Coronavirus. Due to these findings, Vitamin D supplements have become more popular during the pandemic.
On a more general level, Vitamin D may help protect against common diseases like Type 1 diabetes and certain cancers.
Bone Strength
Vitamin D is essential to maintaining healthy bones. Osteoporosis, a disease that occurs when the body loses too much bone mass, affects more than 3 million Americans per year. Women are more likely to be diagnosed with osteoporosis than men.
The condition comes with an increased risk of bone fracture, which can be life-threatening for older individuals. Vitamin D helps the body absorb calcium, a key nutrient for bone density and strength.
Skin Health
Vitamin D also plays a role in proper hair and skin function. Clinical studies have shown that low Vitamin D levels can lead to dry skin and psoriasis, a disorder that causes skin cells to multiple and form scaly patches.
Vitamin D and calcium absorption are also involved in cell turnover, which can improve the appearance of our skin.
Symptoms of Deficiency
Sufficient Vitamin D levels are critical to help prevent disease and improve overall wellness. Symptoms of a deficiency may include:
- Regular illness
- Bone and back pain
- Fatigue
- Muscle pain
These symptoms can lead to more serious complications like cardiovascular and neurological diseases, infections and certain cancers.
Sources of Vitamin D
In addition to supplements and sunlight, food sources of Vitamin D include fatty fish, egg yolks, cheese, mushrooms and fortified juices. Consult your doctor on the appropriate Vitamin D dosage for your age – there is such a thing as too much!
As we continue to navigate these uncertain times, it’s important to focus on staying healthy. The Vein Centers of Connecticut offices are open and following all guidelines to ensure a safe patient experience. To learn more about our services, contact us today.