At least 60% of Americans have a Vitamin D deficiency. As we avoid the sun more and more for fear of developing skin cancer, we may be creating an even bigger problem. Vitamin D is absolutely essential for our bodies and 15-45 minutes of direct sunlight each day is the best way to get it (the darker your skin, the more time you will need in the sun).

When an adult does not get enough D they can experience the following: aches and pains, lowered immunity to disease, bone softening, increased rates of cancer (especially breast, prostate, and colon cancers), heart disease, diabetes, Parkinson’s disease, and high blood pressure. Men, age 40-70, with low levels of Vitamin D have a significantly higher risk of heart attack than men of the same age group with normal D levels.

Eating certain foods can help raise your Vitamin D levels, but they are not a substitute for adequate sun absorption. These foods include egg yolks, WILD salmon, tuna canned in olive oil (not water), beef liver, Swiss cheese, and whole milk.

Infants and small children are increasingly deficient in D as well. Probably a result of spending more time playing inside, and wearing sunscreen when they do go out to play. 97% of African-American children are deficient. The fear is that this generation will grow up to have more chronic disease than the previous generation as a result. Some researchers have gone so far as to declare that an otherwise healthy woman’s Vitamin D levels in her reproductive years is the single greatest factor in determining her future child’s health for their entire lifetime (Harvard University studies on this subject are ongoing). Children who DO have sufficient Vitamin D levels are less likely to develop schizophrenia, autism, depression, asthma, tooth decay, obesity, and high cholesterol.

Vitamin D levels are NOT routinely checked during physical exams. You can ask your doctor to run a very simple blood test (called 25 (OH) D) to determine your (and your child’s) Vitamin D levels.

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Jessica Alfreds

Jessica Alfreds is a Chef, Caterer, and Event Planner based in New York City. She is currently working on her first cookbook, teaching herself how to sew, and attempting to live a purposeful life. Jessica is a 3rd generation New Yorker and currently resides in the East Village. Visit jessicaalfreds.com.

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