Vitamin D and your healing process...What the NHS is not telling you about Vitamin D ☀️
Vitamin D: The Sunshine Vitamin ☀️ and Your Healing Journey
You might be surprised to learn that many people, including many of our chiropractic patients, are walking around with significantly low levels of Vitamin D. This "sunshine vitamin" plays a crucial role in numerous bodily functions, from supporting your immune system to maintaining strong bones.
Why Vitamin D Matters
Vitamin D is essential for:
Boosting Immunity: Fighting off those pesky colds and flus.
Strong Bones: Preventing osteoporosis and fractures.
Mood Enhancement: Combating seasonal affective disorder (SAD) and improving overall mood.
Muscle Health: Supporting muscle function and reducing pain.
Inflammation Reduction: Naturally reducing inflammation throughout the body.
Cell growth
Glucose metabolism
Increasing overall recovery, wellness and prevention
The Shocking Reality of Deficiency
Widespread Problem: In the UK, an estimated 50% of the population is Vitamin D deficient, with even higher rates in certain groups (e.g., non-Caucasian individuals, obese individuals). Thats approximately 33 million people!!
Inadequate NHS Support: Current NHS guidelines often underestimate the need for Vitamin D supplementation and may not provide sufficient dosages.
GP’s usually prescribe Calichew D forte which is calcium carbonate (aka chalk - an almost impossible form of calcium to absorb 🤢) and 400 iu/10 mcg of Vitamin D.
The 90% Reality: If we use a more realistic threshold for deficiency (under 85 nmol/L), nearly 90% of the UK population may be deficient during the winter months!
Optimising Your Vitamin D Levels
Sun Exposure: When possible, get some sunshine! Aim for 15-20 minutes of sun exposure per day (without sunscreen) during the summer months.
(shadow must be shorter than you are to make Vitamin D, which means in April - Sept in the UK)
Supplementation: Consider a high-quality Vitamin D supplement (around 5,000 IU) during the winter months 🥶 when the sun exposure is less.
Good quality vitamin D supplement should have the following:
-Be in an organic oil
-Have no sweeteners, fillers or thickeners
-be around 5,000 iU
-Have adequate vitamin K2
...So what about Vitamin K2
Vitamin K2 is made by our very own intestinal bacteria and is a vital nutrient that works synergistically with Vitamin D. It helps:
Regulate Calcium: Directs calcium to bones and prevents its buildup in blood vessels and organs.
Improve Blood Clotting: Reduces the risk of excessive bleeding.
Take Action Today
If you're concerned about your Vitamin D levels, we encourage you to have a discussion with Theo. We can assess your individual needs and recommend the best course of action for optimising your vitamin D status..
If you interested in getting some good quality vitamin D, Talk with Theo or Shirley at your next appointment.