Now that we have more access to the sun (only for a few brief months) how much Vitamin D do I need?”
This was asked by a patient of mine this week and it’s a great question! I will make this short, sweet and to the point. There are four required supplements for optimal health:
- Omega-3 Fish Oil
- Probiotic
- Vitamin D
- Whole Food (Multivitamin/Mineral) Supplement
If you look at the landscape of our food, we cannot get enough of these vital nutrients from our daily food intake. We must supplement them. As far as Vitamin D is concerned, you need 1000 IU’s (international units) for every 40 lbs. of bodyweight. I recommend Vitamin D in the liquid form either in organic olive oil or organic coconut oil.
“What if I am in the sun or go to the beach?” Another great question. If you are able to get 30 minutes of un-blocked (no sun screen) to large parts of your body (back, chest, thighs) then you do not have to take your Vitamin D for that day. If you go to the beach and are under the umbrella or have a 30 block sunscreen on all day then you will still need to take your Vitamin D. Hope this helps…have a happy, healthy summer.