The Sunshine Vitamin
VITAMIN D
It’s beginning to feel like summer is just around the corner…
The sun is our major source of vitamin D which we absorb through our skin, but here in the UK we can only absorb enough between April and October, if the sun is out and we are out in it with our arms and legs exposed. I don’t know about you, but I’m still in my winter woolies and am not about to get my shorts on just yet!
However, did you know our vitamin D status is impacted by genetic variances which control its availability and response?
The GC gene controls the supply of vitamin D binding protein which is important for transporting vitamin D in the circulation.
The VDR (vitamin D receptor) gene controls our sensitivity to vitamin D and helps mediate the immune system, dopamine synthesis and bone formation.
I have a SNP on my VDR, meaning I have a lower sensitivity to vitamin D, which may result in symptoms of insufficiency. I may need higher levels of vitamin D to achieve the same benefit as someone without this SNP.
Symptoms of vitamin D deficiency include osteoporosis, muscle weakness, back pain, mood disorders, brain fog, fatigue and hair loss, and it is also relevant for cardiovascular health, diabetes, migraines, allergies, blood pressure, cancer prevention, autoimmune diseases, immunity and general inflammation. So many jobs for it to do and it can’t do them if you don’t have enough!
I encourage my clients to get their vitamin D status checked regularly. This can be done easily at home with a finger prick test.
I can also help you test your genetics with @LifecodeGx. Their Nutrient Core report is a foundation genetic test which tests for your personal response to certain foods, vitamins and your metabolism. Contact me to find out more and discuss your requirements.
Supplementation is important throughout the winter months and in the summer if you have a greater need - have SNPS, dark skin, are elderly or just don’t get outside much. TEST DON’T GUESS though, because too much vitamin D can be harmful.