Vitamin D

Written By Jazmine Reyes

The absolute POWERhouse of a Vitamin.

What is it really?

Vitamin D is both a nutrient we eat and a hormone our bodies make from direct sunlight.

Vitamin D helps the body absorb calcium and regulates both calcium and phosphorous levels in the blood.

The role of vitamin D is very important because it helps support the following...

  • strong immune system

  • mood regulation

  • healthy bones & teeth

  • reduce inflammation

  • thyroid & heart health

  • healthy hair & nails

Symptoms of Low D

Vitamin D deficiency is widely under-diagnosed and under-treated & over 40% of Americans are affected.

Over time, low levels can lead to hypothyroidism (since T3 needs vitamin D to bind), osteoporosis, cancer, heart disease, fatigue, depression, seasonal affective disorder (SAD), and fibromyalgia.

If you are deficient you may feel….

  • low energy, fatigue regardless of how much you sleep

  • frequently sick

  • brain fog

  • gut issues

  • hair loss

  • depression

  • weakness

  • high blood pressure

  • muscle weakness & pain

  • tingly sensation in hands or feet

Root Causes

  • you ain’t outside! lack of sun exposure

  • certain medications such as statins or steroids-please do not stop any meds without talking to your doctor!

  • lower dietary intake

  • getting older, advanced age

  • Issues absorbing vitamins and nutrients in the intestines such as celiac or crohn’s

  • if we are also deficient in magnesium and potassium, then we have a difficult time making vitamin D. this is why checking your labs is important!

Suggestions

  • skip the phone right when you wake up & let the sun hit you for 10-15 mins

  • open your car window if it’s a sunny day & play some weezer or red hot chili peppers, my usual vibe

  • Take that phone call outside & listen to the tea while you’re on a walk

  • work near an open window if you can... artificial fluorescent lighting does nothing for you.

  • eat more beef liver, salmon, sardines, mackerel & cod liver oil

What now?

Advocate for yourself. talk to your doctor and request to test your Vitamin D.

You may need to supplement with Vitamin D, but please keep in mind that if you take too much it can actually suppress your immune system! Follow up labs will be done to ensure that doesn’t happen.

Form a relationship with your doctor...ask questions, request testing, take an active role in your health. your life depends on it.

With Love,

Your Nurse Coach Jaz

Jazmine Reyes
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