Christiane Wert Rivard a registered dietitian says, "Sunshine is a significant source of vitamin D.....The body produces vitamin D when the skin is exposed to direct sunlight. However, as we head into these colder and darker months, it's essential to increase your intake of vitamin D since time spent outside is limited."
Vitamin D deficiency is believed to be an all too common problem that has received inadequate attention given the important role the vitamin plays in preventing disease.
Until recently, the "sunshine vitamin" was mostly known for improving bone health, but a number of recent studies have shown that its benefits go far beyond preventing bone loss.
According to a new study published in the Archives of Internal Medicine researchers found that vitamin D may actually help you live longer. Recent studies have also linked vitamin D deficiencies to higher risk of cancer, diabetes and multiple sclerosis; and still other studies have found the vitamin could play a role in reducing heart disease and preventing pre-eclampsia in pregnant women.
"In addition to sunlight, another great source of vitamin D is fortified foods, such as milk and ready-to-eat cereals but many people just don't have the time to eat right," said Rivard.
Health officials recommend taking a vitamin D supplement as a great way to securely get the vitamin in your diet.
