You may have heard that researchers are studying whether or not healthy levels of Vitamin D have any impact on the severity of COVID-19 cases. Small studies are being conducted across the globe, and while there aren’t official conclusions, there may be benefits to boosting Vitamin D levels in our blood.
Vitamin D is often referred to as the “sunshine vitamin” because it gets produced in our skin in response to sunlight. Simply exposing our skin to the sun allows us to naturally make Vitamin D. For some of us, however, getting enough Vitamin D through the sun isn’t possible, and we may have a deficiency. A simple blood test can help you determine if you have a Vitamin D deficiency.
What does Vitamin D do for our Body?
Vitamin D regulates the absorption of calcium and phosphorus, which both contribute to healthy bones and teeth. It also facilitates normal immune system functioning. Healthy amounts of Vitamin D can reduce your risk of multiple sclerosis, decrease your chance of having heart disease, can help prevent the flu, helps regulate your mood to ward off depression, and boosts weight loss.
How to Get Enough Vitamin D
Foods like salmon, herring, sardines, cod liver oil, canned tuna, egg yolks, and mushrooms naturally contain high amounts of this vitamin. Supplements are another option for increasing levels of Vitamin D, so if you’re interested in going this route, talk with your doctor to ensure proper dosage. Some factors can make it difficult to get enough Vitamin D, like living in an area with high pollution, living in cities where buildings block sunlight, wearing sunscreen, and having darker skin. Standing outside in the sun for 10-30 minutes, several times a week, is generally considered a safe way to maintain healthy Vitamin D levels in your blood.
Local Places to get Vitamin D Levels Tested
LabCorp and Quest Diagnostics are two labs that have locations throughout Milwaukee. We encourage you to speak with your doctor and other healthcare providers if you’re interested in exploring your Vitamin D levels.
Resources
Doheny, K. (2020). More Vitamin D, Lower Risk of Severe Covid-19? Retrieved from https://www.webmd.com/lung/news/20200518/more-vitamin-d-lower-risk-of-severe-covid-19
Jones, T. (2019). 7 Healthy Foods That are High in Vitamin D. Retrieved from https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/9-foods-high-in-vitamin-d#6
Wilson, D. (2020). 3 Surprising Benefits of Vitamin D. Retrieved from https://www.healthline.com/health/food-nutrition/benefits-vitamin-d