Here’s how vitamin D can help you lose extra pounds

Vitamin D, we all know, is good for bones and over health but many do not know that the same can help you to lose weight.

As per several studies, deficiency of the same can lead to weight gain. So, if you are weight watcher and unable to lose weight even after following strict diet and exercise then low levels vitamin D could be the reason.

As per the study which was conducted by Brazilian scientists, deficiency of vitamin D was found to be 35% higher in obese people.

As per another study, the scientists randomly selected obese and overweight women and some were given placebo while some were asked to have 1000 IU vitamin D supplement. Researchers found women who took supplement shown a significant reduction in body fat mass.

In another study, researchers found less exposure to sunlight indeed affected the body fat mass.

Speaking of vitamin D, the major forms of it are of vitamin D2 (ergocalciferol) and vitamin D3 (calciferol). Vitamin D3 is only found in animal-sourced foods, on the other hand, D2 mainly comes from plant sources and fortified foods.

For the unversed, our skin makes vitamin D3 when it’s exposed to sunlight. To be precise, Ultraviolet B (UVB) rays from sunlight leads to the formation of vitamin D3 from the compound 7-dehydrocholesterol.

Some of the best ways to increase the intake of vitamin D are via supplements, early morning walks and consuming vitamin D fortified foods among others.

Vitamin D supplement
Vitamin D supplements are commonly available. If you want to improve the levels of vitamin D, then you can go for the supplements. Soon you will see that you are more energetic, less fatigued, have better sleep and memory. However, it is very important to check with your doctor before you start taking pills.

Sun exposure
As mentioned above, vitamin D levels can easily go up if increase your exposure to the sun. So, for the same, one can wake up early in the morning around 5 a.m. – 6.30 a.m. and go for a walk or jog. It will not only increase vitamin D levels but also improve your overall health. It must be noted that sun exposure after 8 a.m. can be dangerous.

Vitamin D rich foods
This is one of the best ways to boost up the levels of this nutrient. One can go for food items such as milk, salmon, mackerel, yogurt, almonds, eggs and mushroom among others.

Bottom-line
If you are unable to lose weight then low levels of vitamin D could be one of the reasons. Make sure you consult a doctor before you start increasing vitamin D rich foods’ intake and supplements.