By JJ Virgin
Lately, nutritionists and other health professionals have been buzzing about vitamin D. That’s because recent studies show a link between dementia and low levels of vitamin D. Scientists who studied more than 850 people over the age of 65 believe that vitamin D aids the formation of nervous tissue and prevents brain tissue degeneration. Study participants with a severe vitamin D deficiency were 60% more likely to have severe cognitive decline!
But if you’re lacking this vital nutrient, then the threat of dementia is not the only cause for concern. Low vitamin D may also contribute to depression, heart disease, hypertension, osteoporosis, and a slew of other ailments.
Want to ward off dementia and other diseases associated with low vitamin D? Here’s how …
Researchers have found that those who have a moderate to heavy level of physical activity have about a 40% lower risk of developing dementia, so don’t make excuses for not working out. Exercising outdoors also ups your exposure to sunlight, which helps your body produce vitamin D naturally. Twenty minutes of sunshine on your arms and legs daily should do the trick (no sunscreen).
Have your doctor check your 25 hydroxyvitamin D levels and strive for 60-80 ng/ml. Heart-healthy seafoods like salmon and mackerel are a good source of vitamin D, but you can also ensure that you get your daily D by taking a multivitamin fortified with vitamin D if you need it to optimize your vitamin D levels. In short, stay active and get your vitamin D to stay sharp!
©2010 JJ Virgin & Associates, Inc. Celebrity nutrition and wellness expert JJVirgin is a media personality, in-demand public speaker and best-selling author of Six Weeks to Sleeveless and Sexy, The 5-Step Plan to Sleek, Strong and Sculpted Arms. Get her biweekly LEANzine chock full of tips to get you slim and sexy fast at http://www.jjvirgin.com.
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