VITAMIN D: THE SUNSHINE VITAMIN

We all know that Vitamin D is good for us and is essential for healthy bones and teeth and that exposure to sunshine helps our skin to synthesise this but we also know that Vitamin D levels in the population in general are quite low as we heed warnings about too much ultraviolet exposure leading to skin cancer. It sounds confusing but it is simple really. 

You can get outside and get a moderate amount of sun but should be sensible and avoid burning episodes at all costs. However, many experts now recommend daily Vitamin D3 supplements regardless of sun exposure. 

Vitamin D is both a nutrient we eat and a hormone our bodies make. It is a fat-soluble vitamin that has long been known to help the body absorb and retain calcium and phosphorus; both are critical for building bone. Also, laboratory and clinical studies show that vitamin D3, especially higher strengths, can reduce cancer cell growth, help control infections, reduce inflammation, minimise phototoxic reactions from ultraviolet radiation and, very importantly, Vitamin D3 enhances both innate and adaptive immune function. Many of the body’s organs and tissues have receptors for vitamin D, which suggest important roles beyond bone health, and scientists are actively investigating other possible functions.

ARTIS London recognises the importance of Vitamin D3 for photo-immune protection and recommends daily supplementation for all. Their Photo Immune complex contains high strength vitamin D3 and specially pressed sunflower oil.