Benefits of Vitamin D & Downfalls of a Deficiency

With a distinct lack of sunshine in the UK right now we're all craving some rays and thoroughly missing that Vit D. The “sunshine vitamin” has been shown to be beneficial for several health conditions, including bone health, immune health, fertility, and others. 

We're here to give you the full low down, explore the benefits and downfalls if you have a deficiency

Recent reports have shown that 1 in 5 adults in England may be deficient in Vitamin D. In reality, it’s likely that even more people than this are actually deficient.

Some people may not get sufficient sunlight exposure to get enough vitamin D even during the summer, and should therefore consider a vitamin D supplement throughout the year.

We are big believers that we should focus on getting the nutrients we need from actual food, but to get enough vitamin D this can be tricky unless you track your intake religiously. With the help of our new vitamin D health shots, we are making it that little bit easier to hit your target as we have packed each pocket rocket package with over 5ug. This is over 50% of your recommended daily intake. 

It is possible to get small amounts from our diet, from foods such as egg yolks, red meat, oily fish like salmon and sardines, fortified spreads and cereals. However when you look at the total amount of vitamin D per 100ml, it tends to be less than 10% of the recommended daily amount so it is best not to rely solely on plant based milks for your vitamin D. Mushrooms that have been exposed to sunlight are an amazing source of vitamin D, but we don’t eat them every single day and not every box of mushrooms will necessarily have the same nutritional profile. 

SO WHAT DOES VITAMIN D DO? 🤔

It plays a role in regulating our calcium and phosphate levels – key nutrients in keeping our bones, teeth and muscles healthy. 

In children, low levels can lead to rickets - a bone deformity, weak bones and poor growth. In adults, vitamin D deficiency can lead to a condition called Osteomalacia or ‘soft bones’ causing bone pain and an increased risk of fractures. Low levels can also contribute to feelings of tiredness. 

Research suggests that adequate vitamin D intake may also help optimise immune health and mood and reduce the risk of developing several diseases such as osteoporosis, diabetes, hypertension and cancer. 

Have you got your Vitamin D supplement ready? Keep your eyes peeled because we have something coming next week that could come in VERY handy.