SUNSHINE

In our last issue, we took an in-depth look at calcium. Let’s discuss the role summer sunshine can play in our body’s use of calcium.

   Vitamin D, the “sunshine vitamin,” is easily absorbed while we are sitting in the summer sun. Unfortunately, this can leave you calcium deficient. Here’s how it work: This increase of vitamin D then causes an increase in blood calcium. Your body takes that calcium from other areas; the bones, muscles, and skin, leaving them lower in calcium.

   Fortunately, the body will normally reverse this trend, and return the calcium to where it originated, or where it is needed. This is accomplished by certain fat derivatives (called prostaglandins), which will actually carry calcium back into the bones, muscles, and skin. The best source of these fatty acids are in your diet: unrefined vegetable oil, butter, freshly shelled nuts and seeds, and egg yolks. When calcium is not returned, symptoms of fatigue, achiness, and dry itchy skin are common.

   So enjoy the summer sun in moderation, as long as your body is prepared for it.