Vitamin D and Weight Loss

Studies show that low levels of vitamin D are often observed in people who are overweight. It is suggested that the hypothalamus (the very small part of your brain that regulates hormonal functions) senses low vitamin D levels and responds by increasing body weight and releasing hunger-stimulating hormones as a basic line of defense. Also, at the cellular level vitamin D may also prevent the growth and maturity of fat cells.

This new information may want to make you gorge out on vitamin D supplements! However, the truth is keeping your vitamin D levels at the optimum range is much better than popping and eating a bunch of D all at once.

How To Boost Your Vitamin D Intake

Get Some Sun. Simply going outside can help raise your D levels even in the slightest. When UVB rays hit your skin, your body photosynthesizes vitamin D. This is why it’s called the sunshine vitamin. Unfortunately, where you live and your lifestyle tends to be key factors in the amount UVB rays that you have access to.

Food Intake. Eat a diet rich in vitamin D! Fatty fish are major sources of vitamin D. Also, fortified juices, milk and cereals can contribute to your daily intake, as well.

Supplement. Supplementing with 1,000 to 2,000 IU of vitamin D daily can help make up where foods and sun rays are falling short. Oftentimes, calcium supplements come with vitamin D because that particular vitamin helps the body absorb calcium - so you could opt to get even better health with a little extra calcium with your vitamin D!

Simple blood tests are available from your doctor or nutritionist to determine your vitamin D levels and if you're in need of more. Work together with your healthcare professional to coordinate the needed supplementation to optimize your health today!