Have you ever wondered if those long summer days are really giving you all the vitamin D you need? Well, get ready for a surprise, because the answer might not be what you expect.
Imagine this: you're lying on the beach, feeling the warmth of the sun on your skin, thinking you're doing your body a big favor by "loading up" on vitamin D. But what if I told you that it might not be enough? Yes, I know, it sounds contradictory, but let me explain.
Spain, with its beautiful beaches and sunny climate, seems like the ideal place to get vitamin D, which is produced in the skin in response to sunlight and is of utmost importance for women's health and well-being at all stages of life. It helps prevent osteoporosis, contributes to reproductive health, improves fertility, and alleviates premenstrual symptoms, among other benefits. Given its wide range of benefits, maintaining adequate levels of vitamin D is essential for optimizing overall health and quality of life for women.
But it turns out that even in the sunniest countries, like Spain in summer, most people are deficient in this important vitamin. Surprising, right? But don't worry, you're not alone in this.
Now, you’re probably wondering, "Why? I spend more time outdoors in the summer." Well, there are several reasons, and here they are:
- The increasing use of sunscreens: We know that ultraviolet B (UVB) radiation is essential for our body to synthesize vitamin D, but it is also the main cause of skin problems like spots and wrinkles. Therefore, by protecting ourselves from the sun, we also reduce our body's ability to produce this vital nutrient.
But there is another factor we should consider; during the summer, when your shadow is longer than you, you don't synthesize vitamin D, you simply get sunburned.
- Poor diet: Few foods naturally contain vitamin D. If the diet does not include sources such as fatty fish, egg yolk, or fortified foods, a deficiency can occur.
- Indoor lifestyle: Spending a lot of time indoors with air conditioning, especially during the hottest hours.
- Clothing: Wearing clothes that cover most of the body for cultural reasons or to protect from the sun.
- Skin pigmentation: People with darker skin need more sun exposure to produce the same amount of vitamin D.
- Obesity: Excess body fat can "sequester" vitamin D, reducing its availability.
Now then, why is vitamin D so important?
Vitamin D plays an important role in life, in overall well-being, and performs several crucial functions in the human body.
- Bone health: Vitamin D is crucial for calcium absorption, which helps maintain strong bones.
- Immune system: It helps strengthen the immune system, improving immune response and reducing the risk of infections.
- Hormonal regulation: It can assist in the regulation of hormones, including those involved in the menstrual cycle.
Moreover, vitamin D can help improve menstrual regularity in women with PCOS and may help reduce pain associated with endometriosis.
- Fertility: Some studies suggest that adequate levels of vitamin D can improve fertility rates and the success of assisted reproductive treatments.
- Pregnancy health: Adequate levels of vitamin D during pregnancy are associated with a lower risk of complications.
- Cardiovascular health: There is evidence suggesting that vitamin D can contribute to heart health. Adequate levels of vitamin D are associated with a lower incidence of high blood pressure and cardiovascular diseases.
- Mood and mental health: Vitamin D deficiency has been linked to mood disorders, such as depression and anxiety. Vitamin D can influence the production of serotonin, a hormone related to mood.
- Cancer prevention: Some studies have suggested that adequate levels of vitamin D may be associated with a lower risk of certain types of cancer.
If your body is not absorbing the necessary vitamin D, don't get discouraged, because there is a solution: vitamin D supplements. And yes, you should take them in the summer too; it's like filling up your car's tank before a long trip: if you take vitamin D in the summer, you'll be prepared for the winter.
Which type of vitamin D is best?
Not all vitamin D is the same; D3 is the star of the show, the one that truly increases blood levels. And if you combine it with other nutrients like vitamin K2, magnesium, and zinc, even better!
How and when should you take it?
The best way to take vitamin D is in the morning, during breakfast, accompanied by something fatty to improve its absorption.
At Mater Clinic, we advise you not to let the summer sun deceive you. Your body needs vitamin D all year round, and a small supplement can make a big difference. With it, you ensure optimal levels and protect your bone health, immune system, and much more.
However, it is crucial to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any supplementation regimen, as needs can vary from person to person.
At Mater Clinic, we remind you of the importance of taking care of yourself, as it is the best gift you can give yourself. Enjoy the summer, protect your skin with sunscreen, and don't forget your daily dose of sun! We also remind you that we have caring professionals always ready to answer your questions. If you want more information, you can write to us without any obligation or book an appointment with us. We are on Doctoralia, or you can write to us on our WhatsApp number at 645 096 548 or through your preferred contact method. We will be delighted to talk with you!
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