the sunshine vitamin

I've heard some random news bits about Vitamin D and tonight I thought I'd do my research on the health benefits of this vitamin.

It seems as though "Vitamin D is found in many dietary sources such as fish, eggs, fortified milk, and cod liver oil."

I'm really not a fan of fish or cod liver oil.

Luckily, "The sun also contributes significantly to the daily production of vitamin D, and as little as 10 minutes of exposure is thought to be enough to prevent deficiencies."

"The major biologic function of vitamin D is to maintain normal blood levels of calcium and phosphorus. Vitamin D aids in the absorption of calcium, helping to form and maintain strong bones. Recently, research also suggests vitamin D may provide protection from osteoporosis, hypertension (high blood pressure), cancer, and several autoimmune diseases."

I'm thinkin' that I ought to be sure to take my multi-vitamin, drink more milk, and make some omelets for breakfast to get my fill of Vitamin D this wintertime.

It's also a good reminder to get out in the sunshine whenever we can.  For sunshine is always a good thing (well, unless you live in Phoenix and it's 115 which tends to bake your brain OR if you live in Alaska where it's like 0 degrees all winter)

The links:

{Vitamin D Society}

quotes from: {Vitamin D at the Mayo Clinic}

{Vitamin D on Wikipedia}