As Americans begin to spend more time indoors and the daylight hours begin to shorten, it is important to consider your levels of vitamin D.

Vitamin D is an important nutrient, which allows our bodies to absorb calcium to build stronger bones. This is especially important during childhood and adolescence when there is rapid physical growth and development.

Vitamin D also keeps our immune system strong by stimulating immune cell proliferation and cytokine production. It also helps the regulation of metabolism of calcium and phosphorus. Additionally, there are well-recognized positive benefits of vitamin D on bone density and muscle strength.

It is especially important for children to consume adequate amounts of vitamin D because it assists in calcium absorption. Children’s developing bodies need higher levels of calcium to ensure bones are developed to their fullest potential. Research shows adolescents have the highest risk of developing vitamin D deficiency, which can cause bone deformities, muscle weakness, bone tenderness or pain. 

Although our bodies can make vitamin D from the sun, most dermatologists caution against prolonged direct sun exposure to avoid skin damage. Vitamin D can also be consumed by eating fatty fish, egg yolks, mushrooms or fortified milk like Silk Soymilk with DHA Omega-3.

 In addition to vitamin D-rich foods, many people opt to take a vitamin D supplement to ensure they are getting adequate amounts of the nutrient. Try a daily multi-vitamin like One A Day VitaCraves Gummies to ensure you are getting all the important vitamins you may be missing in your diet.