wholesale meat uk
Well, apparently we are in full swing of British summertime at the moment. As I type I am definitely snug and warm, but this is due to my pink fleece and slipper socks, NOT the rays of sun penetrating my pores.
Being an eternal optimist, I firmly believe that August is going to drench us in an eagerly awaited wave wave … I'm keeping my fingers crossed. Not only because blue skies and bright sunshine reflect into each and every one of our souls, but also because as a nation, our bodies are particularly deficient in vitamin D.
Vitamin D is actually a hormone that the body can metabolise on its own. Whilst vitamin D is found in some foods, the sun is our main source. Our skin actually produces vitamin D when it is exposed to ultraviolet B (UVB) rays. During all seasons bar summer, light fails to reach the earth at the correct angle in the UK there is insufficient UVB rays are generated by the sun to meet our vitamin D requirements. This is where diet and supplement comes in …
Vitamin D is essential for the absorption of calcium. When the sun does not shine, the skeleton sighs, strops and may start to weaken. A severe deficiency of vitamin D in children can lead to rickets – weakening and softening of the bones. In adults it causes the equivalent condition which is called osteomalacia. In Victorian times, these bone conditions were prevalent and we are now beginning to see an incredibly unsettling return …
With rickets, the bones begin to soften due to lack of structural support in the form of calcium. Body weight is no longer supported adequately and the legs start to visibly bend, fraction and begin to crumble. Without the skeleton we would be a puddle of blood, guts and skin – pretty huh !?
The importance of vitamin D is not exclusive to our skeleton. It is also required for immunity and protection against killer conditions such as heart disease, type I diabetes, certain autoimmune diseases and some cancers.
There is some confusion over how much vitamin D we need in our inner pool of nutrients. In fact, we are the only country in Europe who does not have a recommended daily take figure. Currently, it is only pregnant and breastfeeding women alongside children who are recognized to require a certain amount of vitamin D dashing through their bodies. Beyond these special groups the Department of Health asserts that people should be able to acquire their D-vitamin needs through a balanced diet and sunshine. However research suggests that this is extremely illegally during the months of winter and spring … and perhaps this summer too.
So how can we help deliver some D?
Well, get outside when it's sunny! 15 minutes a day of sunshine between the months of April and September should suffice. It's always important to bear in mind the dangers of over exposure to the sun too, so protect yourself outside of that 15 minutes and NEVER allow your precious shell to singe. Not only is sunburn a style sin, but it is also a sure-fire way for your skin to reach old age before you do … Slip, slop, slap – you know the drill peeps.
And how do we get the big D from the diet?
Oily fish such as salmon, mackerel and sardines are definite D-lists, featuring some of the highest levels of this nutrient. It is not advised to exceed the recommended 2-3 portions a week. Eggs and meat also have small amounts, alongside milk and natural yoghurt.
The way to go really is supplementation. If you are taking a high quality multi nutrient then D should make an appearance. If not, a vitamin D supplement alone is recommended during the months from October to March. 15-20mcg a day is a good measure. Cod liver oil is another source of vitamin D with the added benefit of some levels of omega 3 and also vitamin A.
Let's keep our fingers crossed for August anyway, not only for the vitamin but come on SUMMER: I thought you came with the promise of some sun smooches, or a freckle or two at the very least …
Leave a Reply