Sources of Vitamin D
Vitamin D sources The "Sunshine Vitamin"........ Sources of Vitamin D Vitamin D is often referred to as the "sunshine vitamin" because the body produces it when the sun's ultraviolet (UVB) rays strike the skin. It is the only vitamin the body manufactures naturally and many experts consider it more of a hormone than a vitamin. In theory, exposing the face and arms to the sun for fifteen minutes three times a week should enable the body to make all the vitamin D that is needs. However, some experts point out that sun is not a reliable source of vitamin D because there are many factors that affect its ability to produce adequate amounts; these include the use of sunscreens, sunlight deprived during winter months, dark-skinned individuals, clothing, and environmental conditions, such as fog, smog, smoke, and dust. Moreover, as we age, our ability to make this fat-soluble vitamin diminishes. In fact, numerous of studies have found the elderly to be deficient in this vital vitamin – especially shut-ins. Most surprisingly, even younger adults may have inadequate amounts of this vitamin. An almost 300 patient study of varying ages who were hospitalized for different types of ailments found 57% to have low levels of vitamin D. In addition, some conditions may increase your need for vitamin D. These include: Needless to say, given all of these harsh challenges, it may be necessary to incorporate supplements and/or dietary sources of vitamin D. Best Food Sources of Vitamin D
One of the ways to determine which foods are the best sources of vitamin D, is by understanding what our body needs on a daily basis to maintain good health. The Food and Nutrition Board of the Institute of Medicine of the U.S. National Academy of Sciences has recommended the following adequate daily intakes: Men Women *1 mcg vitamin D = 40 International Units (IU)
Foods that contain at least 10% -15% of the daily value (DV) in one serving are considered good sources of vitamin D. Excellent sources contain 20% or more per serving. Unlike other vitamins, vitamin D is very sparse in dietary sources, therefore, milk, margarine, breakfast cereals (many), and grain products are fortified with vitamin D during processing to help compensate for the limited amount of food sources. We here at Nutritional-Supplement-Educational-Centre have put a list together of the best food sources of vitamin D to help you with your daily requirements of this vital nutrient. Dietary Supplements as a Source of Vitamin D Dietary supplements are also an excellent way to ensure you're getting enough of the daily required amounts of this vitamin. But how do you choose among the thousands of supplement sources of vitamin D? Here's what we recommend........ First, you need to be aware that dietary supplements are not strictly regulated in the U.S. and, as such, manufacturers do not have to prove the safety, effectiveness, or even the true content of their products. Is it a big problem? Yes. Many manufactures make exaggerated claims about their products in respect to their efficacy. Others have been found to harbor harmful toxic contaminates. Is the FDA aware of this industry problem? Yes, the FDA realizes the scope of this industry-wide problem. Second, having the proper balance of vitamins and minerals are extremely important. Therefore, instead of buying supplemental vitamin D, consider substituting a daily multivitamin and mineral supplement.
Tips on Choosing Quality Supplements as a Source of Vitamin D 1. Select a supplement from a manufacturer that follows pharmaceutical GMP compliance, which is the highest standard possible. Put simply, pharmaceutical GMP compliance manufactures must adhere to stringent requirements.
2. Look for supplements that are created by a highly credentialed formulator such as a top-notch scientist who is qualified to create a supplement with ingredients that work in balance and synergistically to offer the maximum results. 3. Is the supplement enteric coated? Enteric coated tablets preserve the ingredients for release into the blood stream after it passes through the stomach acids. When the tablet reaches the intestines, it will dissolve and then go to work in the bloodstream.
4. Select a supplement that has a COA (Certificate of Analysis) on file for each batch of product produced, which independently verifies the potency and purity of the ingredients used in their products.
5. Does the company provide you with a strong money back guarantee? How long is it for?
Always speak to a physician before taking any dietary supplements.
We hope you found this web-page on the sources of vitamin D useful. To Your Health! The Editors
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