James from Wisconsin Writes:

The cold weather has set in where I live. I am concerned about keeping my immune system strong over the winter. What steps should I take to increase my immune system? 

Dear James,

I can answer this simply with one vitamin. Much research has been done over the last five years and most researchers and scientists agree that the benefits of Vitamin D is critical for building a strong immune system. As a matter of fact, we see Vitamin D being essential for many other aspects of the body as well. Many physicians are checking Vitamin D on regular visits looking for any potential deficiencies. Make sure your doctor is checking vitamin D at least every 6 months to see what the number is. The standard range is from 30-100 on the typical test. Many researchers note that keeping the numbers between about 60-80 is best for optimal results. One physician colleague of mine keeps his Vitamin D at 150 and hasn’t had any type of infection in years, has no aches or pains, has a great sense of well-being, and has great bone density in his 70’s! Amazing. 

Here are some typical signs that you may have a Vitamin D deficiency and would need to see your doctor to get a blood test. Now keep in mind that Vitamin D is the “sunshine vitamin”, however, after age 50, we lose about 60 percent of our skins ability to absorb Vitamin D from the sun. And if you are of a darker complexion with more melanin in your skin, you could be blocking your body’s ability to absorb Vitamin D by almost 97 percent! The reason is that darker skin acts as the equivalent of and SPF sunscreen factor of almost 30. So let’s look at some interesting tips.

1.You Feel Depressed
Vitamin D deficiency causes lowered levels of our neurotransmitter serotonin. This can lead to the blues if not corrected.

2.Your Body Aches
Low Vitamin D has been shown to increase additional inflammation, aches, and pains.

3.You Are Overweight
Carrying excess weight causes Vitamin D to not absorb and be utilized as well. It is a fat-soluble vitamin that is distributed in the fat cells.

4.You Sweat From Your Head
Excessive head sweating is an old-school sign of a vitamin D deficiency. It is still used as a valid marker in medicine.

Best Sources Of Vitamin D

1.Choose Vitamin D3 supplementation, it’s the best bioavailable version 

2.Whole Organic Eggs

3.Fish

4.Mushrooms

5.Nuts and Seeds

Maintaining healthy Vitamin D levels will help you have a stronger immune system, improve your moods, and help you thrive during the winter months.