Hey Ladies,
Recent studies show that vitamin D aka the “sunshine” vitamin is essential for a healthy pregnancy.
According to the following article, women who do not have sufficient levels of vitamin D throughout their pregnancies may be at risk for developing gestational diabetes and preeclampisia.
Read article here:
Vitamin D insufficiency linked to adverse pregnancy outcomes.
What is vitamin D and why is it important?
Vitamin D is a fat soluble vitamin which is essential for a number of reasons. It is mostly recognized as being important for building strong bones by helping the body absorb calcium. It’s also been linked to decreasing incidences of cancer, MS and depression to name a few. And, it’s essential for boosting our immune systems.
Where do I find vitamin D?
SUNSHINE!!! Beautiful and radiant sunshine! No wonder it feels so good to be warmed up by the sun! Our perfectly designed bodies are made to take the sun’s rays and turn it into vitamin D. Today so many of us are stuck inside at desk jobs and rarely see the sun. It’s no wonder that 3 out of 4 Americans suffer from vitamin D insufficiency.
Very few foods naturally have vitamin D. Foods that do contain vitamin D are dairy products, egg yolks, fatty fish, green leafy vegetables, fortified cereals and fortified soy milk. However, the levels found in these foods are rather low.
How do I get adequate amounts of vitamin D?
It’s simple:
According to the National Institute of Health, 10-15 minutes of sunshine 3 times per week should do it! That is 10-15 minutes of sunshine WITHOUT sunscreen. Pregnant and breastfeeding women need 600 IU per day. So get outside and turn your face to the sun!
