Most of us know that Vitamin D is critically important for calcium metabolism, bone health, glucose metabolism and weight management, cardiovascular health and immune function.

But did you know that Vitamin D also helps quicken post-workout recovery?

A recent study by The Orthopedic Specialty Hospital (TOSH), which was supported by USANA Health Sciences, “revealed that increased levels of vitamin D pre-workout decreased skeletal muscular weakness after an intense bout of exercise. In other words, taking vitamin D before you exercise can help you recover more quickly afterwards, making it the perfect supplement to pair with your workout.”

One more reason to add vitamin D to your daily regimen!!

Read the complete article here

Yes, our Cells are Solar Powered!

Vitamin D is actually a hormone, rather than a true vitamin. It is the only nutrient to be manufactured by the body in direct action to sunlight. Vitamin D is made in our bodies when specific wavelengths of sunlight hit the skin, converting already present vitamin D precursors into a form of the vitamin our cells can use. Fifteen to thirty minutes exposure when the sun is high in the sky is the equivalent of taking 15-20,000 IU of vitamin D in supplement form.

Research has indicated that populations that live further from the equatorial zone, where the sunlight is always strong, the higher is the incidence of immune disorders and related diseases. It’s currently estimated that more than 1 billion people worldwide suffer from vitamin D deficiency.

During the winter months, when the rays of the sun are at a lower angle and we tend to be indoors more, we have even less production of vitamin D and are even more in need of vitamin D immune system support. Be sure to use a high quality Vitamin D supplement with 1000 – 2000 IU of D3, which research suggests is better at raising vitamin D levels in the blood.

But just because it’s sunny out doesn’t mean you’re getting the enough vitamin D. In fact, deficiency is common during the summer months as people stay in the air conditioned homes and offices in the heat of the day and some stop taking vitamin D supplementation but still don’t get enough of those high in the sky wave lengths. And on weeks like we have had in my area (rain, rain and more rain), we don’t get any of those healthy rays!

 

Summer Salad Sensations!

Easy, delicious and low glycemic if you stay away from the packaged pre made dressings! Organic cold pressed olive oil with fresh squeezed lemon or lime, or your favourite vinegar is best. Add texture and healthy fats with avocados or nuts.

Did  you know that the darker the green leaves, the more nutritious the lettuce. For instance, romaine lettuce has six times more vitamin C and five times more bet-carotene than iceberg lettuce.

Enjoy a sunny healthy summer!

Gerry