Vitamin D has always been unique. It is not just a vitamin, it is a hormone: a cholesterol substance in skin cells is converted to Vitamin D when exposed to sunlight. Therefore, it does not need to be eaten like all other nutrients. It can be made from sunlight. The amount of sunlight needed depends on the individual (skin color, age) and the time of day and time of year, and the location (near the equator or far).

Alas, if we are wearing sunscreen, those UV rays don’t get through and we do not make Vitamin D. In this case we need to eat it-from fortified milk, eggs and some fish. But the sources are not abundant. Sunlight is absolutely the best way to get Vitamin D.

Why is this such a wonder nutrient?

• It helps your body absorb calcium from the GI tract and also regulate blood calcium and make sure enough gets into your bones.
• It ensures normal development of some cells, in turn reducing cancer risk in those cells.
• Vitamin D deficiency is a major risk factor in at least 17 varieties of cancer
• Vitamin D might be the key in treating Seasonal Affective Disorder (we always thought sunlight was…and it is but because of this nutrient)

• Sunlight lessens inflammation in the body. Inflammation leads to all diseases including heart disease.
• Blood pressure: those exposed to more sunlight have lower average blood pressure than those who aren’t.
• Vitamin D seems to help immune function and lower the risk of autoimmune diseases.

So get about 10 minutes a day of sun exposure before putting on your sunscreen.

photo courtesy of freedigitalphotos.net