Benefits of Vitamin D

Benefits Of Vitamin D

Orchard at Brookhaven is dedicated to helping you stay healthy and happy throughout your life and offer a wide variety of ways to do this to meet your individual lifestyle. The staff at Orchard keeps up on the latest news and research in senior health in order to help their residents live their best life.

We invite you to come visit and see the 40 thousand square foot outdoor green space provided at Orchard. One of the reasons this space was designed is because we know the many benefits of fresh air and sunshine. The human body makes vitamin D when in direct sunlight and residents will be encouraged to spend time outside every day.

Benefits of Vitamin D

  • Improved Sleep
  • Maintaining healthy bones
  • May Regulate insulin levels
  • May help reduce Cancer
  • Improve Cognitive health
  • Help with Osteomalacia
  • Reduce Osteoporosis
  • Boost mood
  • Improve heart health

Getting more vitamin D can help improve sleep which can result in waking up more refreshed and focused and it increases the bodies ability to absorb Calcium, which is vital to bone health. Studies show increased vitamin D can help reduce Osteoporosis by slowing bone mineral loss which reduces bone fractures. And new research suggests that vitamin D, especially when taken with calcium, might help prevent certain cancers.

There are many other health benefits not commonly knows such as improving insulin sensitivity as it helps the body also absorb and use sugar and glucose as energy instead of storing it as fat. Early research suggests that vitamin D might play a role in cognitive health. In one small study of adults age 60 years and older being treated for dementia, researchers found that taking a vitamin D supplement helped improve cognitive function.

Daily outdoor doses of vitamin D can improve energy levels and therefore improve mood. One study showed that a deficiency could increase the likelihood of cardiovascular disease as well as hypertension. It appears to be able to reduce inflammation, to combat arterial plaque and generally to encourage health and normal blood flow.

Orchard at Brookhaven offers walking paths, gardening, exercise classes, and a variety of sitting areas to help you enjoy the sunshine and outdoors.

Ways To Increase Vitamin D Levels

Wondering how you can increase your vitamin D levels? Here are a few ideas to consider:

  • Spend time outside in direct sunlight taking walks, gardening, or just sitting in the sun for limited time periods. It’s important to also remember to stay hydrated when out in the sun for any length of time.
  • Vitamin D isn’t found in many foods; however, you can get it from fortified milk, fortified cereal, and fatty fish such as salmon, mackerel and sardines.
  • Taking a vitamin D supplement. However, we recommend you consult with your physician or a healthcare professional when choosing.

Orchard is thrilled to have two onsite primary care physician practices that will help residents and families determine helpful vitamin supplements. Dr. Lisa Flachbarth of Agape Chronic Care, and Dr. Susan Castle of Whole Family Medicine are both seasoned medical practitioners understanding the value of a wholistic proactive approach to healthcare for persons living with chronic conditions. Set up a consultation to learn more about these Orchard affiliate partners and services.