Now is the time to think Vitamin D
Vitamin D is well known for its role in bone health. In fact, it is a hormone which plays an important role in many bodily processes. Therefore, its deficiency can negatively affect our health. It has been associated with osteoporosis, cancer and an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. Research suggests that it could play a role in diabetes, hypertension and immune function.
Vitamin D deficiency in Ireland is all too prevalent. According to the Food Safety Authority of Ireland, everyone living in Ireland has an inadequate intake of Vitamin D. At 53 degrees north, Ireland doesnât provide enough ultraviolet rays from sunlight to trigger sufficient Vitamin D synthesis in our skin. Hence, our Vitamin D status during the winter months really depends on our intake through food. Food sources include: oily fish like salmon and mackerel, egg yolks, and fortified products such as some brands of milk, spreads, and cereals. The amount of Vitamin D in these are low so achieving healthy levels through food can be somewhat challenging.
So, should you be taking a supplement? That depends. Too much intake of Vitamin D can cause a build-up of calcium in your blood. As different population groups have different requirements it is important to be assessed by a health professional who can decide the adequate supplement form and dosage.
Talk to your General Practitioner and get tested if you're concerned about your Vitamin D levels, and to a Nutritionist to work on a plan that can help you increase your intake through diet.
The information on the website should be used for guideline purposes only and should not be considered as medical advice or used to self-diagnose. We do not recommend the use of vitamin supplements, homeopathy, herbal products or any products purchased from The Health Store in place of qualified medical advice. We recommend checking with your medical practitioner before taking any of our products, especially when taking prescription or other long-term medication.
Karla Bohan Graduated in Nutritional Therapy from the College of Naturopathic Medicine and specialises in Sports Nutrition and Weight Management. Train at CNM for an exciting new career in Naturopathic Nutrition, Herbal Medicine, Acupuncture and Homeopathy. Join us at our next open evening. Reserve your free place at www.naturopathy.ie
MEDICAL INFORMATION<.h2>
The information on the website should be used for guideline purposes only and should not be considered as medical advice or used to self-diagnose. We do not recommend the use of vitamin supplements, homeopathy, herbal products or any products purchased from The Health Store in place of qualified medical advice. We recommend checking with your medical practitioner before taking any of our products, especially when taking prescription or other long-term medication.
The products on the website are not intended for purchase to cure or treat or prevent any ailment or illness and results are not guaranteed for any weight management products. Care should be taken when treating children, during pregnancy, or any ongoing disease or illness and we recommend you seek the advice of a qualified healthcare professional.
Your use of any information or materials on the website is entirely at your own risk, for which we shall not be liable. It shall be your own responsibility to ensure that any products, services or information available through the Website meet your specific requirements. It is important that you read and understand the label/packaging of any product you purchase from The Health Store before consumption or use. The onus is on you to ensure you are satisfied to consume the purchased product.
