Vitamin D is essential for all senior loved ones to stay healthy. From improving mood to reducing the risk of disease, the benefits of increased vitamin D during the spring months cannot be overstated. This article will discuss the best sources of vitamin D, signs that you may not be getting enough vitamin D, and (most importantly) how to increase your vitamin D levels during the spring season.
Signs You May Not Be Getting Enough Vitamin D
According to The National Institute on Aging, seniors should aim for at least 600 International Units (IU) of Vitamin D each day. If you or your senior loved one is not getting enough vitamin D, you, he, or she might experience a variety of symptoms, including fatigue, bone pain, and Seasonal Affective Disorder.
Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a common condition that is caused by decreased levels of vitamin D during the winter months. It's important to note that SAD can also be caused by other factors, such as decreased sun exposure, but low vitamin D levels can exacerbate the symptoms. So, as the days get longer, it's important to keep an eye on your vitamin D levels and to make sure your senior loved ones are getting enough of this vital nutrient.
If you or your senior loved one is experiencing any of these symptoms, make sure to speak with your or their healthcare provider and ask them to do a blood test.
How to Increase Vitamin D During Spring
Safe Sun Exposure
The best way to increase your vitamin D in all months of the year is to get more sun exposure. Aim for about 10-15 minutes of direct sunlight each day, making sure to cover up with sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat afterward.
Eat Foods Rich in Vitamin-D
Additionally, seniors should be sure to incorporate plenty of vitamin D-rich foods into their everyday diets. These include fatty fish like wild-caught salmon, herring, canned tuna, or sardines, and things like egg yolks and mushrooms. Other good sources include fortified milk, orange juice, oatmeal, and cereals. One cup of fortified wheat bran flakes contains 145 IU of vitamin D or around 18% of the recommended daily value. As some of these packaged or more processed foods might not include vitamin D, it's important to check the labels while shopping.
Take a Vitamin D Supplement
Seniors can also opt to take vitamin D supplements to increase their levels if needed. As always, be sure to consult with your or your senior loved one's doctor before starting any new medications.
Keep Your Elderly Loved Ones Healthy With Help From Senior Helpers
Vitamin D is essential for healthy bones, improved mood, and reduced risk of disease. If you or your senior loved one is experiencing low vitamin D levels, don’t worry. There are lots of easy ways to increase your vitamin D and feel better, faster. If you're a senior in Geneva, Aurora, Plainfield, or Oswego and need assistance managing your vitamin D intake, contact Senior Helpers Aurora-Geneva today — we're here to help!