Your Brain And Vitamin D: Why You Need Sun

Your brain and vitamin D: Did you know that your brain needs sunlight? Vitamin D not only protects your bones, but also your nerve cells and helps you synthesize minerals. Many people suffer from vitamin D deficiency without knowing it. In fact, an estimated 60% of all people between the ages of 50 and 60 have some form of deficiency, and among the older part of the population it is even worse – around 80%.

There are two main reasons. The first is that it becomes more difficult for the body to synthesize this substance as  we get older. The second reason has to do with our habits. Vitamin D is synthesized through the skin on contact with sunlight. We can also get it from the food we eat, especially dairy products.

There are many reasons why you may not get enough sunlight. If you are lactose intolerant or do not like dairy products, you may also not get enough vitamin D, which both the body and the brain will notice.

Do you find it difficult to concentrate, think and absorb new information? All of this may have to do with vitamin D deficiency. We do not always think about these neurological symptoms.

Most people know that there is a relationship with calcium, strong bones and osteoporosis. But it has also been known for a long time that there is a connection between the brain and vitamin D.

• Vitamin D activates and deactivates enzymes in the brain and affects the processes that create neurotransmitters and make the nerves grow.
• Vitamin D protects nerve cells and reduces inflammation.
• A study at the University of Cambridge by neuroscientist David Llewellyn showed that people with lower levels of vitamin D performed worse on tests that measured mental performance.

• If it is difficult for us to learn new things, the problem may be that we do not have enough vitamin D.

It will not be immediately apparent that you are suffering from vitamin D deficiency. Many times it is blamed on other ailments and diseases, as well as aging itself. However, it is important that you invest in your health as you get older in order for the brain to stay in good shape.

Let’s look at some possible symptoms of vitamin D deficiency:

• Fatigue
• Muscle weakness
• Pain in hips and back
• Concentration difficulties
• Memory loss
• Problems learning new things

Some types of foods are fortified with vitamin D. This can be, for example, milk, yoghurt or certain types of grain. Now let’s see what other foods rich in vitamin D are available:

• Salmon
• Tuna
• Sardines
• Oyster
• Chanterelles
• Cheese
• Milk
• Egg
• Chickpeas
• Almonds
• Broccoli

It may be a good idea to talk to your doctor to find out if you are getting enough vitamin D. If you are going to start taking vitamin D supplements, it is also a good idea to talk to an expert first.

Vitamin D will strengthen the body’s immune system and help you deal with daily stress better. It is important for both body and mind. Make sure you get enough, because there is a strong link between your brain and vitamin D.