The Benefits of Vitamin D for Weight Loss and Where to Get It

How can a simple vitamin unlock the key to achieving your weight loss goals? Many individuals lack sufficient vitamin D, an essential nutrient that not only promotes calcium absorption for strong bones and teeth, but also, according to studies, contributes to successful weight loss efforts.

How Vitamin D Aids Weight Loss: In 4 Simple Ways

• Vitamin D impacts the fat cells in your body. It makes fat cells more active. Active fat cells burn more calories for energy. This can help you lose weight over time.
• Vitamin D also impacts hunger hormones. It may make you feel less hungry and eat less food. Eating less food can help you to lose weight.
• After eating, vitamin D helps you feel full. If you feel full, you are less likely to overeat. Overeating leads to weight gain, and feeling full can prevent this from happening without the aid of weight loss medications.
• Vitamin D strengthens your muscles too. Stronger muscles burn more calories. They need more energy even when resting. This increased calorie burn can aid in weight loss.

Vitamin D's multifaceted benefits work together, aiding weight loss and preventing regain when your levels are sufficient.

Signs Your Body Needs More Vitamin D

Many people do not have enough vitamin D. There are signs that show you may need more vitamin D.

Signs include:

• Feeling tired often. 

• You may have bone pain or weak muscles. 

• You might get headaches frequently. 

• Sweating too much. 

• Getting sick with colds or flu often.

If you have any of these signs, talk to your doctor. They can do a simple blood test to check your vitamin D level. Your doctor can also then suggest ways to increase your vitamin D.

Three Ways to Get Vitamin D

There are three main ways for your body to get vitamin D:

Sunlight Exposure

Your body makes vitamin D when your skin is in the sun. For most people, 10-30 minutes of midday sun each day is enough. But if you live far north or have dark skin, you may need more sun time.

Eating foods with vitamin D

Fatty fish like salmon are an excellent source. Egg yolks, mushrooms, and dairy with added vitamin D also provide this vitamin. But not many foods have high vitamin D naturally.

Supplements

For those who cannot get enough from sun or food, vitamin D supplements are recommended. Look for supplements with vitamin D3. This form is better than vitamin D2. Most adults need 600-800 IU (units) of vitamin D per day from all sources.

A Vitamin D Weight Loss Boost

If you are trying to lose weight, low vitamin D levels might be hindering your progress. Optimizing your vitamin D levels can enhance your metabolism, thereby increasing both fat and calorie burning. For some individuals, correcting a vitamin D deficiency can significantly boost their weight loss efforts.

Getting Help from Experts

At PrimeHealthMD in Atlanta, GA, we know nutrition is important. Our nutrition experts can help you determined your vitamin D level. We can then recommend ways to get enough vitamin D safely. This may include supplements, diet changes, or getting more sun exposure.

We accept most major health insurance plans. If you are ready to start a weight loss program, contact us. Our team will evaluate your health needs and insurance coverage. Then we can create a custom plan to help you reach your goals. Contact us today to see if your insurance qualifies!