Vitamin D, a fat-soluble vitamin, has been in the media a lot these days as it appears that people who do not have the optimal amount may have a harder time if they contract Covid.   

Vitamin D primarily aids in calcium absorption and promotes the growth and mineralization of bones. It is also involved in various functions of your immune, digestive, circulatory, and nervous systems.

Many people are low in Vitamin D but there are simple things that can be done to improve that.

Easy ways to increase Vitamin D

1. Spend more time in sunlight.  This is not easy with winter, a pandemic, and all of us wearing sunblock.  However, it is such a lovely solution when you can do it.  :)
2. Consume fatty fish and seafood.  Salmon is so good for you and I love a salty anchovy! This is another reason to keep them on your dinner menu.
3. Eat more mushrooms. I take frozen peas, add sliced mushrooms, onions, olive oil, and salt, and pepper, and bake for 35 minutes at 425 degrees.   My kids love it!  Add some mushrooms to your next turkey meatloaf.  Seriously, it is delicious!
4.  Include egg yolks in your diet.  I like a nice yolk to sop up when I have a slice of dry toast.  Hey, it's my Jersey diner roots.  lol. Seriously, it is a great reason to put a bit of flavor back into those boring egg whites.  Of course, If cholesterol is a concern, it is wise to speak with your physician. I have included an excerpt below from the Heart Foundation.

Much of the confusion around eggs has stemmed from the fact that egg yolks contain cholesterol. While egg yolks are high in cholesterol and are a major source of dietary cholesterol, it is saturated fatty acids that have a greater effect on our blood cholesterol levels and, therefore, heart disease risk. 

5.  Eat fortified foods. 

6.  Take a supplement.  If you still have not been able to get your Vitamin D level optimal, you may consider a supplement.

What else can Vitamin D do?  

According to the Journal of the American Medical Association,  the researchers Simes DC, Biegas CSB, and Araujo N. discovered that low doses of Vit D (400 iu to 800 iu) with high calcium intake (1000mg -1200mg) reduced the risk of any fracture by 6% and hip fracture by 16%.

 It seems smart to have Vit K2 along with D as it appears to prevent calcium from entering the arteries and soft tissues. You want the calcium in the bones!   Some studies have suggested that postmenopausal women taking Vit. K2 had a slower decrease in age-related bone mineral density.  

*It is important to note that K2 should not be taken if you are on blood thinners.  Always consult your medical professional if you are seeking nutrition/medical advice. 

I think it is terrific when you can find ways to proactively take control of your health, don't you?  Now take a walk outdoors and have that salmon dinner that you have been craving.