Vitamin D is one of the most essential vitamins for the body to function properly. It has powerful effects on multiple systems throughout the body. Vitamin D is a bit different than normal vitamins. It acts more similar to a hormone; ever cell in your body has a vitamin D receptor. That’s why your body needs a lot of vitamin D.
The recommended daily intake for vitamin D is 400-800 IU, but some experts recommend having even more. It is very easy to become vitamin D deficient. People who are elderly, have dark skin, are overweight, not eating enough animal products, living far from the equator, over using sunscreen, or staying indoors are all at risk of becoming vitamin D deficient. A vitamin D deficiency can lead to some pretty awful health issues:
- Getting sick or infected often
- Fatigue and tiredness
- Bone and back pain
- Depression
- Impaired wound healing
- Bone loss
- Hair loss
- Muscle pain
There are only so many ways to actually get vitamin D in your body. Your body can either make it from cholesterol produced when your skin is exposed to sunlight, or you can absorb it by eating particular foods which are laden with it. Read on to see what are the best vitamin D rich foods to include in your diet.
Salmon
Salmon and other fatty fish are high in vitamin D and omega-3 fatty acids. Just make sure to prioritize eating wild caught fish as they tend to have higher concentrations of vitamin D.
Cod Liver Oil
Cod liver oil is a great supplement for vitamin D if you do not have the ability to eat fish.
Oysters
Oysters are a great choice to get your vitamin D. One serving of oysters has more than half of your recommended vitamin D.
