Body feeling a little achy breaky these days? Maybe some extra D in your diet would help put your joints at ease.
Studies suggest that if you are at risk for vitamin D deficiency (and many of us are), you may be at greater risk of chronic pain. But getting your blood levels back up could help set things right.
D deficiency hurts
More than 50 percent of the world's population suffers from low vitamin D, research shows. And people with chronic pain are significantly more likely to be D deficient. But fortunately, it seems that taking vitamin D for chronic pain might help get their levels back up to normal. So if you've been suffering from unexplained muscle or bone pain, consider getting your D levels checked.
Delightful D
Much more research is needed to confirm the link between vitamin D deficiency and chronic pain. Still, we already know that getting too little of this essential nutrient may be tied to a host of other health problems, including heart disease, osteoporosis and certain kinds of cancer. So give your health a safety net by getting your D. Here's how:
- Bask a little. The sun is one of the best sources of vitamin D because it helps your body synthesize the nutrient.
- Savor some salmon. This lean and healthful source of protein is high in D, as are fortified fruit juices, milk, cereals and soy products.
- Ask about a supplement. Getting all of the D you need from food alone can be a challenge. Talk to your healthcare provider about whether taking a supplement could help.
