Getting Your Vitamin D

Vitamin D deficiency is becoming increasingly common, with 1 in 3 Australians estimated to be deficient.
A mild to moderate deficiency may only have symptoms of vague aches and pains, therefore it is hard to tell without a blood test whether you are balanced in vitamin D.
Especially in winter when we all rug up from the cold, our bodies do not get the UV exposure it needs to make this necessary hormone.  Vitamin D regulates the absorption and secretion of calcium which is essential for the function of the heart, and of course, bone health.
Babies of pregnant and breastfeeding women are particularly at risk as vitamin D is very important for the development of the baby’s skeletal system. In addition, research has also shown vitamin D to reduce blood pressure and lower the risk of diseases like heart disease and diabetes, as well as some types of cancer, like breast and prostate.  
Foods such as fatty fish (ie: salmon and sardines), as well as fortified milks and breakfast cereals are all good sources of vitamin D, but the truth is only about 10% of our vitamin D requirements are met by dietary sources.
This means that we truly need to get ourselves and our kids out in the sun! Sunscreen unfortunately blocks UV rays from reaching the skin, and these UV rays are needed to synthesise vitamin D. However, prolonged periods of sun exposure doesn’t equate to extra vitamin D as the damaging effects from the UV rays will counteract the benefit, so don’t go heading for the beach without protection!
Thus, preferably before 11am or after 2pm… GET OUT and enjoy the fresh air with your little ones to get your Vitamin D… and hey, possibly do a little exercise? You will all be the better for it! And try doing the Lose Baby Weight 10,000 steps challenge to get out, about and in the sun.
And don’t forget to check out our current promotions and discounts page to see what specials we have on this week on our Healthy Mummy product range