Vitamin D: The Sunshine Vitamin and Its Importance for Your Health

As the weather turns colder and the days grow shorter, it’s time to talk about an essential nutrient that many people are missing out on: Vitamin D, often called the “sunshine vitamin.” At Figure Weight Loss, we are committed to educating our patients and their communities about the importance of Vitamin D, especially during the fall and winter months when sunshine can be scarce.

With both in-person and telehealth options available, we want to ensure that you understand how Vitamin D plays a critical role in your health, how to avoid deficiency, and why supplementation might be necessary—especially if you are on a weight loss journey.

What is Vitamin D, and Why is It Important?

Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin that the body produces when exposed to sunlight. It is stored in the liver and fatty tissues, helping your body absorb calcium, which is crucial for maintaining strong bones. But its benefits go far beyond bone health. Vitamin D also supports:

• Immune function: Helps ward off infections and boosts immunity.
• Mood regulation: Aids in preventing seasonal depression and enhances mood.
• Brain function: Promotes cognitive health.
• Blood pressure regulation: Helps maintain healthy cardiovascular function.

Are You Deficient in Vitamin D?

Surprisingly, about 90% of adults in the U.S. are Vitamin D deficient. You are at a higher risk for deficiency if you:

• Spend most of your time indoors.
• Regularly wear sunscreen.
• Live in northern regions with limited sunlight.
• Struggle with obesity or being overweight.

If you fall into any of these categories, it’s crucial to understand the symptoms of deficiency, which are often subtle but can impact your health significantly.

Common symptoms of Vitamin D deficiency include:

• Frequent illness or infections
• Persistent fatigue
• Bone and back pain
• Depression, especially in gloomy weather
• Slow wound healing
• Bone loss
• Hair loss
• Muscle pain

Natural Sources of Vitamin D

While sunlight is the most efficient way to get Vitamin D, it can be difficult to rely on it during the fall and winter months. Here are other sources of this important vitamin:

• Fatty fish like salmon, sardines, halibut, and swordfish
• Egg yolks
• Cod liver oil
• Raw milk
• Fortified foods like pasteurized milk, plant-based milk alternatives, and cereals

However, food sources alone may not provide enough Vitamin D, especially for those with weight loss goals. This is where supplements come in.

Vitamin D Supplements: D2 vs. D3

There are two types of Vitamin D supplements:

• D2 (ergocalciferol)
• D3 (cholecalciferol)

We recommend D3, as it is much better absorbed by the body. If you’re unsure of your Vitamin D levels, we suggest you speak with your doctor about getting a simple blood test to check your levels. The optimal range is between 50-70 ng/mL.

How Much Vitamin D Do You Need?

The Recommended Daily Allowance (RDA) for adults is 600 IU per day, but many experts suggest this may be too low. At Figure Weight Loss, we typically recommend 2,000 IU per day, especially for individuals who are overweight, as the body stores Vitamin D in fat, making it harder to access. Taking your Vitamin D supplement with a meal containing some fat can help improve absorption.

Stay Healthy This Fall with Figure Weight Loss

Whether you’re attending in person or using our telehealth services, Figure Weight Loss is here to guide you in maintaining your health this fall and winter. From ensuring you get enough Vitamin D to supporting you on your weight loss journey, we’re committed to helping you achieve your health goals.

Contact us today to learn more about how Vitamin D can benefit your overall well-being, and let us help you stay healthy, even when the sun isn’t shining!