Research shows that low levels of Vitamin D are believed to be associated with several health concerns including: a weakened immune system, fatigue and tiredness, depression, hair loss, Covid-19, the development of a baby’s bones as well as teeth and muscles during pregnancy, bone and back pain, impaired wound healing, bone loss, muscle pain and diabetes.

This is why getting your Vitamin D level checked regularly and taking a daily Vitamin D supplement is so important in ensuring your level is always optimal.

To help keep us all healthy, Your Personalised Vitamins have developed the world’s first instant quantitative Vitamin D home test kit to accurately measure Vitamin D level. This test aims to ease the strain of Vitamin D monitoring on doctors and nurses in primary care.

In just 15 minutes, this revolutionary test will indicate the exact level of Vitamin D deficiency without you having to wait for results to come back from a lab or visit the GP.

The test uses the Preventis SmarTest® Vitamin D App, which conveniently guides you through the test every step of the way.

Your Personalised Vitamins will also customise a supplement plan according to your test result and dispatch a free six-month supply of Vitamin D supplements to help optimise your level.

These supplements are made in the UK, suitable for vegetarians, peanut free, gluten free and dairy free.

Your Personalised Vitamins have made it so easy to protect yourself against Vitamin D deficiency throughout the year and its causes. All you have to do is follow these simple steps:

• Purchase a plan from Your Personalised Vitamins’
• A Vitamin D test kit will be delivered to you.
• Perform this simple Vitamin D test in the comfort of your own home.
• Submit your results on the Your Personalised Vitamins’
• Your Personalised Vitamins will then send you a free 6 months’ supply of Vitamin D supplements to help optimise your level.

For more information or to buy visit www.yourpersonalisedvitamins.co.uk

Like and Follow us on Facebook @YPVUK

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With many people in the UK suffering from low levels of vitamin D due to a lack of sunlight, chewable supplement brand Yumi Nutrition has launched a new vitamin D3 Sunshine gummy to help you get enough of the essential vitamin during the winter months.

Google Trends data shows that searches for vitamin D in the UK have more than doubled in comparison to this time last year as more and more people look for ways to support their immune system.

Don’t worry if you find it hard to swallow pills as the Yumi Sunshine supplement comes in a chewable lemon flavour gummy.

Amy Morris, functional nutritionist at Yumi Nutrition, said: “Optimal Vitamin D levels are needed for whole-body health, including helping to absorb calcium and phosphorus, ensuring the immune system functions normally and enabling correct growth and development of bones and teeth.”

“The Yumi Sunshine Vitamin D gummies contain a bioactive form of vitamin D (known as vitamin D3) and deliver a dose of 1000 IU vitamin D3 per 2 gummies a day – they are perfect for people who live active lives as you do not need to take them with water and for those who struggle to swallow supplements.”

Alongside the vitamin D3 product, Yumi has also launched an Immunity Support supplement with 120mg of vitamin C to help further protect you against colds and viruses this winter. Coming in orange flavour, the gummies are an easy and enjoyable way to keep your vitamin C levels topped up.

Both products are available for £12.99 for 60 gummies.

The post Yumi Nutrition Launches New Vitamin D and Vitamin C gummies appeared first on Wellbeing Magazine.

What is vitamin D?

Vitamin D is a nutrient that is supplied either through the diet or summer sun exposure.  What makes vitamin different from other vitamins is the fact it works within the body like a hormone.  Subsequently it is intricately involved in immunity, in fact vitamin D is necessary in every immune cell.  This may explain the association between lowered vitamin D status in those with chronic health conditions.  Additionally, research shows that supplemental vitamin D can improve mood in those who suffer with seasonal affective disorder, colloquially referred to as the winter blues.  Vitamin D has been shown to work with lactic acid producing beneficial bacteria (probiotics) to drive down inflammation and contribute to improved gastrointestinal health.  In fact, vitamin D receptors are found within all the human organs that include, the heart, kidney, bone and skin, which means that adequate vitamin D is necessary for those organs to function normally.

Although Public Health England recommends that all adults and children supplement with 400iu of Vitamin D from October through to March, a larger dose may be necessary for those with a diagnosed vitamin D deficiency.  

Does SPF prevent the body from absorbing vitamin D?

Sunscreens containing skin protection factors (SPF) work by blocking ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun, particularly UVB the rays which causes sun burn. However, it is also UVB rays which when in contact with our skin, initiates the process that leads to our body manufacturing vitamin D. Therefore, we can see that the strict use of sunscreen can in fact lead to poor vitamin D status.

Why is it particularly important for the UK to take a vitamin D supplement now?

New guidance in 2016 from Public Health England (PHE), advises that throughout autumn and winter people should consider taking a daily supplement of vitamin D at 10micrograms (400IU). However, updated governmental advice released in April this year suggests that everyone should now consider taking vitamin D supplements throughout spring and summer particularly while in lockdown. With lockdown measures in place and many working from home, a significant number of the UK population remains indoors most of the day, even during the spring and summer months. Therefore, a large proportion of population may have experienced reduced exposure to the sun and hence have lower than normal circulating levels of vitamin D in the body.

What are the symptoms/indicators that you are experiencing vitamin D deficiency?

A variety of factors may affect vitamin D status, but symptoms of vitamin D inadequacy can be subtle, hard to identify, or even symptomless.  In fact, a recent trial showed 3 out of 5 adults in the UK during winter are deficient in vitamin D.  However, an increased frequency of infections, ongoing fatigue, unexplained back or lower body pain, poor wound healing and low mood can be general indications, subsequently these aspects may be more pronounced in the winter months when the sun is too low in the sky for vitamin D metabolism to occur in the skin.  Those at risk of lowered vitamin D status include those who follow a diet that is low in vitamin D, have limited skin exposure to summer sunlight, have dark skin, are obese or have issues with malabsorption, a digestive issue that reduces nutrient absorption.

If you are not deficient in vitamin D and add a supplement into your routine, can it cause harm?

Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin which means it is stored by the body. As with other fat-soluble vitamins, if consumed in excess long term this can lead to toxicity. It is important, therefore, that if you have not been tested and do not know if you are deficient that you only supplement with 400IU of vitamin D as recommended by Public Health England. Supplementing with 400IU of vitamin D daily, even with adequate levels of vitamin D will not pose harm. Higher dose supplements are available on the market up to 2000IU which are advisable for those who have known vitamin D deficiency.

What sources are high in vitamin d?

The best and most efficient natural source of vitamin D is through controlled sun exposure, this can range from 20 minutes for those with fair skin to 40 minutes daily for those with darker skin.  Once vitamin D stores are fulfilled by sun exposure the mechanism halts and so levels will not achieve toxicity.  This gives the reasoning that even the best food sources of vitamin D are low and limited to oily fish such as salmon, mackerel and sardines besides dairy, eggs, and mushrooms, especially sun-exposed or ultraviolet light-exposed mushrooms.  Consequently, vitamin D is often fortified into foods, for example, to milk alternatives.

About Aimée Benbow, BSc (Hons), MSc, ANutr.

Aimee is passionate about nutritional product development and the impact and efficacy of nutraceutical ingredients. Working in the food and supplements industry for over 11 years, she has supported people’s health through product development, advice and education.

As Technical Services Director at Viridian Nutrition she is responsible for a team of Nutritionists, providing customer support and ensuring an understanding of the latest clinical research.  Aimee has launched over 20 products into the market based on consumer need and clinical efficacy. With experience managing a product range she has an in depth understanding of the industry regulations as well as the process to achieve certified organic status. A keen supporter of health food stores, Aimee is a regular speaker at training events to share knowledge and best practice.

A health and fitness advocate, Aimee has specialist knowledge of sports nutrition and has completed sprint triathlons and endurance events. Other focus areas include ageing, skin health and beauty. Additionally, with a passion for ethically and sustainably sourced ingredients, Aimee is also highly experienced in quality assurance and audit procedures.

Aimee graduated from the University of Surrey in 2008 with a BSc in Nutrition. In 2018 she completed a Masters degree in Nutritional Medicine and has also achieved a Diploma in Herbalism. This is supported by extensive experience in HACCP (food safety) and qualified supplier auditing.

Aimee believes that diet and lifestyle play a huge role in overall health and wellbeing, therefore it is vital to support people in achieving a healthy regime and optimum nutrition.

The post The most asked Vitamin D questions appeared first on Wellbeing Magazine.

The new PHE advice says:

“For most people the current stay at home advice will mean being indoors for much of the day to day, which could result in not getting enough vitamin D from sunshine exposure. Existing public health advice is that if you’re not going outdoors often, you should consider taking a daily supplement containing 10 micrograms of vitamin D.

PHE are recommending that during this time everyone follows the advice (including children, pregnant and breastfeeding women and older people). This advice is specifically about protecting bone and muscle health and not reducing the risk of infectious diseases.”

Nutritionist & author Pauline Cox

Nutritionist Pauline Cox BSc MSc and author of the upcoming book “Primal Living in a Modern World” Says: “Not only is Vitamin D is essential for bone, muscle and dental health, it is also vital for the immune system and fighting off viruses. Vitamin D regulates the amount of calcium and phosphate in the body. Without it, bone health can suffer and can eventually lead to rickets in children.”

Pauline continues “Vitamin D is essential to a healthy immune system – so much so that a virus will try and block the body’s vitamin D receptor to try and reduce access to the vitamin. By increasing your vitamin D levels you are increasing your access to promote a healthy immune response.”

Vitamin D is produced in the skin by exposing the body to just 10-15 minutes per day of sun. Yet due to social isolation, especially among the vulnerable and elderly, many people are lacking in vitamin D and do not have access to outside spaces for the body to create its own.

Pauline recommends a high-quality ethically sourced supplement such as Wiley’s Finest K2, which not only has 2000iu of Vitamin D and a daily dose of K2 but also 500mg of Omega 3s essential acids EPA and DHA. Together these nutrients support optimal bone and heart health by helping to incorporate calcium into bones.

For children, Wiley’s Finest Beginner’s DHA offers a boost of 400iu of Vitamin D3, as well as 650 mg EPA + DHA Omega-3 per serving.

In addition, two recent studies found that Vitamin D can help build resistance to Covid-19.

One of the studies, published in the Irish Medical Journal, calls for the immediate vitamin D supplementation of hospital inpatients, nursing home residents and older people.

It suggests that vitamin D supplementation in the wider adult population, particularly in frontline healthcare workers, may further limit infection and flatten the Covid-19 curve.

As reported in the Irish Examiner, TILDA principal investigator, Prof Rose Anne Kenny, said they have “very strong evidence” to support a role for vitamin D in the prevention of chest infections, particularly in older adults who have low levels.

“In one study vitamin D reduced the risk of chest infections to half in people who took the supplement,” she said.

K2 is a vitamin that most people have never heard of however it’s essential for the body to transport and distribute calcium around the body – helping to prevent osteoporosis and improve bone health. There is little benefit in taking calcium supplement without maintaining enough vitamin K2 in your diet.

Wiley’s Finest Vitamin K2 is available at the recommended retail price of £34.99 for 60 softgel capsules (2 month’s supply). Available from pharmacists across the UK and online at  wileysfinest.co.uk

Wiley’s Finest Beginner’s EPA is available via wileysfinest.co.uk for £29.99.

Pauline Cox photography by Suzi Bird of Sunlight Photography

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Frequent infections

Vitamin D is an immunity booster and enables you to ward off disease and infection. If you suffer from frequent bouts of cold and flu, you may be deficient in this vitamin. Several studies show that people who are low on it are likely to fall prey to respiratory infections. Taking supplements can reduce your risk to a considerable extent.

Bone pain and loss

A well-known fact about vitamin D is that it improves the absorption of calcium. For this reason, it is vital for maintaining bone health. Bone pain and loss indicate that you are falling short on its optimal levels. People who are deficient often experience lower back pain, joint pain, and pain in the ribs and legs. Chronic deficiency can even limit daily activities.

Weight gain

Another sign that your body is lacking this vitamin is weight gain. Some studies also link it with an increase in belly fat. If you have a vitamin D deficiency, Earl Hailey from PatchMD.com explains that your body will convert sugar to fat instead of energy. Obviously, this extra fat will pile up on your body and take the weighing scales higher.

Fatigue

A deficiency of vitamin D can make you feel constantly tired. In fact, you may feel deprived of energy levels even if the levels are not extremely low. Unfortunately, people often fail to pay attention to this sign and the deficiency can go undetected. Early detection is the key because simply taking daily supplements can make you feel energetic and improve the quality of life.

Depression

Another symptom of vitamin D deficiency is depression. According to scientific research, older adults are more likely to experience mood issues due to the lack of this vitamin. The bad news is that people fail to establish the link between the two. Taking supplements on a regular basis can resolve the problem to a considerable extent.

Slow wound healing

If you experience slow healing of wounds, you may be suffering from a lack of vitamin D. The vitamin speeds up the production of certain compounds that promote the formation of new skin during the wound healing process. Additionally, it controls infection and reduces inflammation too, making it vital for wound healing.

Since these symptoms are easy to overlook and associate with other health issues, it is usually hard to diagnose vitamin D deficiency. The best approach is to be aware and take quick action and seek help if you experience any of these.

The post 6 Vitamin D Deficiency Symptoms That You Should Know appeared first on Wellbeing Magazine.

Let’s face it, we all hate it when the temperature starts to drop and the sun starts to set at 5pm. For most of us, we wrap up and move on. However for some people, year after year, energy levels drop and they are left feeing depressed, tired and lethargic. This can mean that they suffer from Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). For those who have SAD, they must endure the winter months instead of enjoying them, until now.

Get More Vitamin D

Vitamin D is naturally produced by the body when the sunlight hits the skin. When there is less sun exposure, you’re less likely to produce Vitamin D. A lack of Vitamin D can result in weak and brittle bones. Supplementation is your best strategy for more Vitamin D as few food sources contain high doses.

Try Light Therapy

Light therapy is a great way for people to get more Vitamin D. It uses special, very bright ‘light boxes’ which help your body naturally create Vitamin D and in turn, ease the symptoms of depression.

Find Workouts You Enjoy

When you’re feeling down, the last thing you want to do is exercise. However, going to the gym can be one of the best ways to tackle depression. Regular exercise will boost your well-being by releasing feel-good endorphins and can help to increase your energy levels. The better workouts that help to ease SAD symptoms are yoga and swimming rather than focussing on muscle-building or fat-loss result based programmes. Focus on the fun and how good it makes you feel. As long as you are motivated, it will help exercise your mental health as well as your physical health.

Keep Regular Sleep Hours

With winter days being shorter, you don’t want to spend all your time asleep. The more sunlight hours you’re awake for, the more Vitamin D your body will be producing. Try to regulate your sleep hours by waking up and going to bed at the same times every day. If you struggle to fall asleep, consider using melatonin supplements. Melatonin can help to regulate your body clock so it’s easier to stick to your routine.

The post Beating the Winter Blues appeared first on Wellbeing Magazine.

Getting your Vitamin D

Vitamin D helps the body to produce serotonin, it supports skeletal strength and if supported by a varied diet of low sugar and dairy and lots of green veg it can literally be a brain changer. The easiest way to boost your Vitamin D intake is to get outside, cloud cover does reduce the amount of Vitamin D that our bodies take in (produce) but some still gets through. Being outside in the fresh air is an important part of boosting your mood.

Jodie Bell, founder of Healthy Habit Dorset talks about her favourite outdoor activities:

Walking – is low intensity and therefore great exercise for all abilities

Jogging or running – higher intensity than walking but offers a more intense calorie burn per minute

Cycling – There are lots of cycle paths available nowadays for those of you not comfortable with cycling on roads and it’s a great cardio exercise

Kayaking – it is warmer on the water than in the water! This is great for your upper body and gives a great core workout from the moment you get on the kayak

Paddle boarding – This is a total all over workout, although you can stay on your knees until your confident. You can mix in some yoga and fitness moves to increase the burn

Climbing – is great for strength conditioning and endurance. Climbing can give you a real adrenaline rush and make you feel alive. Always make sure you are safe and never climb where you are not supposed too!

Hiking – is a great stress reliever, being at one with nature can add extra calm and help put things in perspective whilst using those big muscles (gluts and thighs)

The best times to get outdoors, get some exercise and increase your Vitamin D intake is first thing, or straight after work. These are the times when you’ll be the most motivated, it’s a great way to start the day and wake up, or to finish your working day and destress. When the weekends roll around why not make social commitments that offer a change, walk to the pub, take a back pack to the shop to get your weekend essentials or offer to walk a friend’s dog!

The post Feed the body vitamin D appeared first on Wellbeing Magazine.