Vitamin D, the “sunshine vitamin!” Some of us don’t get enough from sun exposure (especially with winter here) or have a sufficient amount of vitamin D in our diets. Obese and dark-skinned people typically have lower levels of vitamin D than rest of the population. It is important to maintain healthy vitamin D levels, for health and weight loss. I take 5000U every day, but I do not recommend you taking that dose without checking with your doctor.

Multiple studies have associated vitamin D deficiency with diabetes, heart disease, obesity, and obesity related diseases. A recent NYT article references a new study that found a correlation between low vitamin D levels and Type 1 diabetes. One of the study authors said, “Type 1 diabetes “has all the hallmarks of the kinds of diseases — rickets, scurvy, pellagra — that we prevent with vitamin supplements.””

It is advocated as a diet pill. It helps with weight loss, and reduces fat accumulation. Plus, the more weight you lose, the higher your vitamin D levels (especially true in women).

Consider taking this supplement, getting more sun exposure if you can (with any outdoor exercise), and adding fish oil to the mix. Let’s stay healthy and lose weight this winter!