Known as the sunshine vitamin, vitamin D is produced by the body in response to being exposed to sunlight. As UVB rays cannot pass through clothing, glass windows or suncream, the body can only make vitamin D when directly exposed to sunlight. As Ireland is located in the Northern latitudes, we get less sun exposure during the Winter months and spend more time indoors, and so often become vitamin D deficient.
Vitamin D deficiency can have many negative effects on the body such as:
- Fatigue
- Depressed Mood
- Muscle Pain and Weakness
- Poor Concentration
- Headaches
- Bone Pain
- Weight Gain
Treatment for vitamin D deficiency involves consuming more though diet or through supplements. Foods that are rich in vitamin D include fatty fish such as salmon, tuna, mackerel, sardines, some fortified foods such as cow and plant based milks, cereals, gains, yoghurts and egg yolks. For many individuals who simply don’t like fish and may be deficient, supplements such as cod liver oil or Pharma Nord D-Pearls which are available here in the pharmacy may be the best alternative option.
