Vitamin D is very important for all aspects of health. When your body has enough of this essential vitamin, you’ll have fewer diseases, stronger bones and muscles, fewer infections, less depression, reduced pain and inflammation and indeed a longer life (with a reduction in death from all causes). New Vitamin D benefits are still being discovered by researchers all the time, including improvements for:

• A healthy immune system
• Lower blood pressure
• Regulating blood sugar levels
• Absorption and utilisation of calcium and phosphorus
• Cell differentiation (an essential cancer-fighting ability)

How Much Sun Exposure Do I Need for Vitamin D? In an interview on Australian ABC Radio, Prof Rebecca Mason said the minimum recommended sun exposure time for white skinned people living in Sydney would be, on 4-5 days per week...

• In summer 6-8 minutes mid morning or mid afternoon, exposing face, arms and hands (18%-20% or your body)
• In winter 20 minutes in the middle of the day
• More time is needed if you live further south and less if you live in the tropics. Dark skinned people require longer sun exposure to make the same amount of Vitamin D.

Prof Mason also said that adequate levels of Vitamin D may help:

• Type 2 Diabetics respond to insulin better
• Your Immune System to better fight off infection – e.g. flu
• Autoimmune diseases e.g. MS, Rheumatoid Arthritis
• Inflammatory Bowel Disease

Food sources of Vitamin D Best dietary sources include cod liver oil, egg yolks, butter, liver and fortified milk products (in Australia our milk is not fortified with Vitamin D). How much Vitamin D do you need? Supplements of Vitamin D3 are available in dosages of 1000iu and that strength may be sufficient for many people’s needs.  (The team at Mr Vitamins can help you understand product labels and dosages). If you are lacking in Vitamin D you may need a higher dose, so it is very important to consult your naturopath or health care professional. If need be they can order a blood test to check your level and work out a program for you.

N.B.  Vitamin D is one vitamin on which you can overdose (though not from sun exposure) and therefore it is vital to seek professional advice as some health conditions can be adversely affected by taking Vitamin D supplements. Mr Vitamins’ naturopaths are available every day to consult on your health needs and answer questions.