Vitamin D gets a lot of attention. You probably know that it’s important to your health, but do you know why and how much of it you need?

Our team at AFC Urgent Care North Carolina wants to shed some light on the topic—read on as we take a look!

Why Is Vitamin D Important?

Vitamin D is an essential nutrient needed to help your body properly absorb calcium, which helps keep bones strong. Beyond that role, this vitamin also helps the body absorb important vitamins and it’s known to boost your physical and mental health in a number of ways.

Since vitamin D primarily comes from exposure to sunlight, the gloomier days of winter can make it difficult to get enough. Have your doctor check your vitamin D level at your next checkup, and if you’re not getting enough, take steps to increase your intake.

Ways to Get Vitamin D

• Include egg yolks in your diet.
• Eat fortified foods.
• Take a supplement, if advised by a doctor.
• Try a UV lamp.
• Consume fatty fish and seafood.
• Eat more mushrooms.

Can a Lack of Vitamin D Affect My Sleep?

Yes, actually. Some studies have shown that a vitamin D deficiency can make it more likely that you don’t get the sleep you need each night.

Vitamin D can promote quality sleep since it reduces inflammation and pain. This, in turn, can make it easier for you to fall asleep and stay asleep, which is a win!

Tips for Getting Quality Sleep

• Avoid chemicals that disrupt sleep, such as nicotine, caffeine and alcohol.
• Eat lighter meals at night.
• Stay active.
• Take a hot shower or bath close to bedtime.
• Avoid screens one to two hours before bed.
• Keep the bedroom cool and dark.

Our mission at AFC Urgent Care North Carolina is to provide affordable, high-quality health care to those across the state of North Carolina!