It has been estimated that approximately 90% of the Canadian population are not meeting the recommended intake of vitamin D!
Vitamin D is an essential nutrient that plays a significant role in maintaining optimal health. It is most widely known for the important part it plays in keeping bones and teeth healthy5. There are two forms of vitamin D particularly important to humans: vitamin D2 and D34. Vitamin D2 is made by plants and vitamin D3 is made when our skin is exposed to sunlight4. This is a unique feature of vitamin D, as all of the other vitamins are obtained through our diet. Some estimates have indicated that 90% of the required daily amount of vitamin D is obtained simply through exposure to sunlight7. However, what if you are only getting a little sun exposure or none at all? This can be especially problematic throughout the winter months. Here in the Okanagan, we experience decreasing sunlight in the winter months and use sunscreen in the summer months. However, just 10-15 minutes of unprotected sun exposure per day can help you reach your daily recommended intake for vitamin D!
It has been estimated that approximately 90% of the Canadian population are not meeting the recommended intake of vitamin D!9