About half of Americans 60 years and older take a daily vitamin D supplement. Most people know that getting some sunshine helps boost vitamin D levels. But here are five lifestyle factors that you may not have known also influence your status.
1. Don't Smoke.
A smoking habit can deplete many vitamins, vitamin D among them. Add this to the many other reasons you already have to quit smoking if you do.
2. Watch Your Weight
People who are overweight have lower levels of vitamin D in their blood. While this relationship is a correlation and not a proven cause, how many reasons do you need to shed a little weight?
3. Stay Active.
People who are physically active tend to have higher levels of viatamin D than those who are sedentary.
4. Diet with a D.
It can be challenging to get enough vitamin D in your diet, but including foods that are fortified with vitamin D (dairy, orange juice and many cereals) or are naturally good sources (tuna, salmon, eggs) will help you meet your requirements.
5. Rule Out Medical Problems
There are a number of gut and bowel conditions that are closely associated with low vitamin D levels, including Crone's Disease, IBS and other metabolic problems. These can affect your ability to absorb vitamin D.
And, of course, spend time outside. Just 15 to 20 minutes a day in the sunshine may be enough to raise your levels.
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