Welcome to Mayesa’s BlogPosts Tagged ‘autoimmune disease’Mayesa Chocolate Drinks – A Good Source of Vitamin DDecember 31, 2013
Why is that important? Globally over a billion people are Vitamin D deficient and 77% of American adults have insufficient levels of Vitamin D. What is Vitamin D Vitamin D is more commonly known as the “sunshine vitamin.” It is actually a fat-soluble hormone that the body can synthesize naturally from the sun when your skin is exposed to UVB rays. Why is vitamin D necessary? Vitamin D assists in the absorption of calcium and promotes bone mineralization. It also helps to strengthen the immune system and protect against a number of serious diseases, including rickets. Recent research even suggests that Vitamin D may also provide protection from hypertension, psoriasis, and several autoimmune diseases such as multiple sclerosis and rheumatoid arthritis. In addition, growing evidence has demonstrated an important role in the body’s defense against cancer. Studies link a deficiency of Vitamin D to as many as 18 different types of cancers. What are the signs of Vitamin D deficiency? Deficiencies of Vitamin D are common, especially in countries in northern latitudes, where sun exposure is typically lower. Studies indicate that another cause of low levels of Vitamin D is the prevalent use of sun screens that block UV rays. Vitamin D deficiency is indicated by porous bones, weak muscles and easy fracturing. However, as mentioned above, a deficiency can also cause other problems in the body that are not as easily diagnosed as a Vitamin D deficiency. How do you get enough vitamin D from foods? Good dietary sources include fortified foods, eggs, salmon, tuna, mackerel and sardines. Since sunlight causes our bodies to make vitamin D, daily exposure is helpful. However, you’ll need to check with your doctor on how much exposure to the sun without sunscreen he or she recommends. Health care providers are becoming more aware of the role Vitamin D has to our over-all health. The next time you see your physician be sure to discuss Vitamin D and its links to health risks. You’ll want to know his or her suggestions on Vitamin D-rich foods, supplements, and foods fortified with Vitamin D. Getting Vitamin D is one of the many benefits of Mayesa, a healthy chocolate drink.
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