Sure, Vitamin C gets all the credit in the health industry because it kept pirates from getting scurvy on long ocean journeys away from land. But Vitamin D is actually the real super vitamin.

The sun delivers free Vitamin D every day. It promotes healthy bones and teeth, and it protects from a range of diseases and unpleasant conditions, including type 1 diabetes!

Vitamin D is actually not a vitamin at all. Its secret identity is that it is a prohormone, the precursor to a hormone. This is because the human body can produce vitamin D from solar exposure. Ordinary vitamins enter the body through the consumption of foods or other nutrients.

Vitamin D regulates calcium and maintains phosphorus levels in the body. It stimulates the intestines to absorb calcium and reclaims calcium from the kidneys that would otherwise be eliminated. This ensures  that bones and teeth are strong and can sustain a long life.

It regulates insulin levels, and can be a factor in determining an appropriate insulin strategy for diabetics.

Vitamin D supports brain, nervous system and circulation by acting as a neurosteroid and postpones the decline of mental acuity over time.

Some studies have suggested that Vitamin D can have a protective property against the influenza virus. More research is being conducted to determine  the efficacy of this vitamin on viruses.

Even though the body can – and does- make Vitamin D, a deficiency is possible. Summertime generates a lot of sun, but sun screens, which protect against high UV exposure, can actually prevent the absorption of the natural source of vitamin D as well.

People who stay indoors, live in Northern climates during winter when solar exposure is low, or experience many cloudy days do not get the sunshine they  need.

Symptoms of Vitamin D deficiency can include fatigue, bone and back pain, impaired healing of wounds and blood clotting, hair loss, and just feeling sick.

In addition to clean, warm sunshine, fatty fish such as salmon, tuna and mackerel are great sources of Vitamin D, as are cheese, egg yolks, beef liver, and mushrooms. Our doctors at Gem State Holistic Health Clinic and Harper Restoration System can also recommend and supply natural supplements we use and stand by.

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Are you getting all the vitamins and minerals your body needs? We suggest taking any vitamins or supplements in moderation and in accordance with your age. Vitamins are especially important for older individuals as their immune systems are weaker than those of younger people.

If you are worried about how vitamin D may affect your body, reach out to Dr. Dennis Harper or Dr. Joshua J. Morris. We’d love to help you out with any concerns you may have about your health!

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Gem State Holistic Health Clinic’s Newsletter: Subscribe to our newsletter to receive news about health & nutrition. Dennis Harper, DC, and Joshua Morris, MD offer their expertise in the articles.

Consultations: In addition to our newsletter, we also offer virtual consultation options, or you can come on down to our Orofino healthcare office for an in-person consultation and exam!

Gem State Holistic Health is happy to help you with all your alternative health care needs. Your age shouldn’t define who you are. Allow us to help you live your best life with our Pain Elimination Paradigm!!