Newsletter - Summer, Sun & Vitamin D

Dear Valued Patients,
I hope you are enjoying the sunshine and the warmth as we are quickly entering into summer! As an osteopath, I am dedicated to supporting your overall health and well-being. This season, I want to focus on something vital to your bone health and immune function: Vitamin D. 

Vitamin D is essential for strong bones, muscles, and a resilient immune system. The best natural source is sunlight. However, balancing sun exposure is crucial, as one-third of Australians are low in Vitamin D, yet two in three will be diagnosed with skin cancer by the age of 70. In 2023, there were an estimated 18,200 melanoma cases in Australia alone. 

The function of Vitamin D:
Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin that helps with many bodily functions, including:

• Bone health: Vitamin D helps the body absorb calcium, which is a key component of strong bones. It also helps maintain calcium levels in bones, where 99% of calcium resides. Without enough vitamin D, bones can become weak and fragile, leading to conditions like osteoporosis and rickets. 
• Muscle function: Vitamin D helps muscles move. 
• Nerve function: Vitamin D helps nerves carry messages between the brain and body. 
• Immune system: Vitamin D helps the immune system fight off bacteria and viruses. 
• Brain health: Vitamin D may play an important role in brain health, especially in older adults. 
  
  

Some studies suggest that low levels of vitamin D may be linked to chronic diseases like cancer, heart disease, and multiple sclerosis. However, more research is needed to confirm these links. Kidney and liver disease can reduce the body's ability to change vitamin D into a form it can use, leading to a deficiency​


​Vitamin D through diet:
The body can prevent or address Vitamin D deficiency by absorbing it through foods that naturally contain Vitamin D, for example: Fatty fish (like salmon and mackerel), egg yolks and mushrooms. Adjusting your diet to include these foods can make a significant difference in maintaining healthy levels.

While sunlight is an essential source of Vitamin D, it’ important not to overexpose yourself to harmful UV radiation. Prolonged sun exposure does not significantly boost Vitamin D levels but greatly increases the risk of skin cancer.

When UV levels are 3 or higher, most Australians can meet their Vitamin D needs with just a few minutes of sun exposure during everyday activities, such as walking or gardening.


Monitor Your Skin Health
​The good news is that most skin cancers can be prevented by protecting yourself from UV damage. Remember to:

Slip on covering clothing. Slop on SPF 50+ broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen. Slap on a wide-brimmed hat. Seek shade when outdoors. Slide on sunglasses that meet Australian standards.

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​As we navigate the busy days of summer, it’s important to prioritise your well-being. Regular osteopathic treatments are an excellent way to stay in tune with your body, prevent issues before they arise, and maintain your overall health and mobility. Whether you’re managing an ongoing concern, recovering from an injury, or simply wanting to feel your best, scheduling a tune-up can make all the difference.

If it’s been a while since your last visit, now’s the perfect time to book your next appointment. Let’s work together to keep you moving and thriving! Book your session today by calling 0409 052 292 or visiting https://www.stinayogaosteo.com/book-online.html.


Take care and enjoy the season ahead. Stina Wangqvist


Sources: 
Dietitiansaustralia.org.au/health-advice/vitamin-d
healthline.com/health/food-nutrition/benefits-vitamin-d
​https://www.cancer.org.au/cancer-information/causes-and-prevention/sun-safety