Wednesday 1 May 2013

53. Summer At Last?

Well, it is May and there are signs we might be having some sunny weather. Although we always have to be careful not to burn it is a good idea to collect some of that free Vitamin D. Some useful info:

Role of Vitamin D in Good Nutrition

Vitamin D is produced by the body when the skin is exposed to sunlight. It is also found in foods of animal origin.
  • Vitamin D differs from other vitamins in that our bodies can make it upon exposure to sunlight.
  • In its active form, it is considered to be a hormone. It has hormone-like effects on mineral absorption, bone mineralization and some secretions.

Key Functions

  • Vitamin D is crucial for the development of healthy bones and teeth. Without it, the body cannot build or maintain strong bones.
  • Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin that plays a role in controlling calcium absorption, which affects bone development and is also essential for blood clotting.
  • When vitamin D is in short supply in the body, less calcium is absorbed from food, and blood levels have to be maintained by taking calcium from the bones.

Food Sources

Cod liver oil, herring, mackerel, sardines, salmon, margarine, tuna, and cheddar cheese.

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