The immune system varies with seasonal changes and one of the keys to staying healthy is vitamin D. Next, we are going to see what vitamin D is for and how to increase it through diet.
What is vitamin D used for?
It performs several functions and has benefits that contribute to the proper functioning of the body:
- Maintains muscle and bone health, preventing related diseases.
- Regulates, controls and balances the absorption of calcium and phosphorus.
- Strengthens the immune system.
- Helps prevent respiratory, autoimmune and cardiovascular diseases.
- Improves cognitive function.
- Regulates blood sugar and prevents diseases such as diabetes.
- Prevents skin aging.
How to increase vitamin D?
The natural way to obtain vitamin D is through exposing the skin to the sun. It seems like an easy task, especially in summer, but there are climatic factors, lifestyles, medications and diseases that make it difficult to properly absorb and/or be exposed to the sun's rays. Therefore, it is important to take into account some foods with vitamin D to avoid or improve its lack:
- Dairy, cheese and yogurt.
- Eggs: Healthy option with A, D, E and Omega 3.
- Mushrooms: ideal for taking care of the immune system in autumn. We recommend: Easy and healthy recipes to enjoy the flavor and properties of mushrooms.
- Blue and fatty fish: salmon, tuna, sardine and mackerel.
- Seafood: oysters, prawns, clams or shrimp.
- Cod liver oil. Contains A, D and Omega 3.
- Also, you can take vitamin supplements to complement a balanced diet. Likewise, we recommend putting yourself in the hands of specialist doctors before taking them.
Now that you know what vitamin D is for, its many benefits and what foods you can increase it with... all that remains is to take action!