I firmly believe that you are what you eat. If you consistently consume unhealthy foods, it will eventually take a toll on your body. I have taken control of my health by listening to my body and providing it with the necessary nutrients, vitamins, and antioxidants to stay healthy and strong. If you neglect to fuel your body with fruits, vegetables, and other nourishing foods, it will certainly let you know.
Recently, I was feeling rundown, weak, and out of sorts. I couldn't determine the cause of my weakness, numbness, tingling, and headaches. Initially, I attributed these symptoms to the stress of being a caretaker for my spouse during his illness, which was exhausting me. Each day seemed to bring more numbness, tingling, and burning sensations in my legs and arms. After two weeks of feeling this way, I visited my physician, who ordered blood work to check my vitamin levels. To my surprise, I discovered that my Vitamin D level was below average.
Many people underestimate the importance of vitamins, especially Vitamin D. Researchers suggest that Vitamin D functions as both a nutrient and a hormone produced by our bodies. When exposed to sunlight, UV rays hit the skin and help our bodies synthesize Vitamin D. Did you know that Vitamin D is essential for calcium absorption, which is crucial for maintaining healthy bones and muscles? It also helps reduce inflammation in the body and supports a healthy immune system. Since I had been indoors without adequate sunlight, my body was deprived of this important nutrient. Depending on where you live, you may not get enough sun exposure, particularly during certain seasons.
When my doctor informed me of my Vitamin D deficiency, I wasn't surprised, as I admit I had been neglecting to take vitamins regularly. My body was clearly signaling that it was not well. If you aren't already taking Vitamin D supplements, I urge you to start—like I did, you may not realize the harm you cause by ignoring these essential vitamins. Now, I am on a higher prescribed dose to quickly boost my Vitamin D levels. This experience has taught me a valuable lesson about the importance of supplements. While I had a large bottle of Vitamin D3 in my medicine cabinet, I was focusing more on my husband’s health than on my own, resulting in my fatigue.
If you don't currently take Vitamin D, please consider your health and do some research on its benefits. This vitamin is essential for overall well-being. I have been feeling better as the days go by, and I am now more mindful of my immune system. There are foods rich in Vitamin D, such as fatty fish, salmon, canned tuna, egg yolks, and mushrooms, but they alone cannot provide sufficient levels for our bodies. I share this information for your health and well-being—investing in your health is vital, as your body needs it.
P.S. It's important to note that Black individuals in the United States have a concerning rate of Vitamin D deficiency. The reasons for this may be complex and require further study. According to Dr. Meltzer of Everyday Health, melanin, which gives skin its color, affects Vitamin D levels; darker skin can produce less Vitamin D than lighter skin. Nevertheless, Black individuals need adequate Vitamin D to support their health and immune function.