Are you low on Vitamin D?
I recently took a trip to Vancouver Island at the tail end of summer, and my friend and I were fortunate to experience two sunny, beautiful days. We made the most of it with visits to the enchanting Butchart Gardens, an afternoon tea, and a sprawling, picturesque winery. Unfortunately, the rest of our trip was marked by rainy, gloomy weather. While the lush forests and thriving greenery owe much to this constant rainfall, the lack of sunshine can have a noticeable effect on one’s mood.
As someone who thrives on a daily dose of Vitamin D from the sun, I find that prolonged cloudy days can leave me feeling low-energy and less cheerful. When sunshine isn’t an option, I make it a point to incorporate Vitamin D-rich foods into my diet and take supplements to compensate. Despite the fact that our bodies synthesize only about 20% of Vitamin D through food, ensuring a diet rich in this nutrient is still essential.
Some excellent dietary sources of Vitamin D include liver, red meat, butter, egg yolks, mushrooms, and fatty fish like salmon, sardines, tuna, and mackerel. Additionally, many foods such as milk and cereals are fortified with Vitamin D, making them convenient options for boosting intake.
Just 20 minutes of direct sun exposure contribute to 80% of your daily Vitamin D.
The remaining 80% of Vitamin D—specifically Vitamin D3—is synthesized in the skin through exposure to UV rays. However, air pollution and the widespread use of sunscreen can make it challenging to get adequate Vitamin D naturally. This vitamin is vital for numerous bodily functions, including bone health, immune system support, and mood regulation.
Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin that plays a crucial role in helping the body absorb calcium and phosphorus, which are essential for bone mineralization, cognitive function, and immunity. If you frequently experience fatigue, muscle aches, or an increased susceptibility to fractures, it might be worth checking your Vitamin D levels through a simple blood test.
Beyond physical health, Vitamin D is a key player in mood regulation. It’s no coincidence that countries with limited sunlight often report higher rates of depression. Vitamin D receptors are located in areas of the brain associated with mood regulation, such as the amygdala, and insufficient levels can contribute to psychiatric disorders. By maintaining adequate Vitamin D levels, you can help support active brain tissues and achieve a balanced mood.
Whenever possible, aim for 15 to 20 minutes of direct sunlight exposure to stimulate Vitamin D synthesis. If that’s not feasible due to weather or other factors, a combination of nutrient-rich foods, supplements, and even red light therapy can bridge the gap.
For those seeking an all-natural solution, Semaine PMS and Period Support is an excellent option. In fact, among its ingredients it contains a good amount of Vitamin D3 to stabilize mood during your menstrual cycle and beyond.
Give it a try and let us know how it works for you!
