Enjoy the Great Outdoors

Engaging in outdoor activities is important for everyone. Whether you enjoy hiking, biking, horseback riding or just taking a walk with a friend, being outdoors has an overall positive effect on vitality. While enjoying the great outdoors you’ll get the added benefit of sunlight, which is a natural way to increase your vitamin D levels.

Vitamin D Foods

U.S. Government population surveys suggest as many as 9 out of every 10 Americans aren’t getting enough vitamin D from foods. Only a few foods offer adequate sources of vitamin D. Examples are eggs (yolks), spinach, potatoes, and fish (especially wild salmon, tuna, halibut, and mackerel). Wild salmon can contain as much as 988 IU of vitamin D3 per serving, while farmed salmon contains an average of 250 IU – so always try to purchase wild-caught fish.

Get Your Daily Sunshine

When it comes to mood, the scientific evidence is clear; the higher your vitamin D levels, the more likely you are to feel happy rather than blue. Daily exposure to just 10 to 30 minutes of direct sunlight can boost vitamin D levels, which can help improve your mood. Be sure to monitor how much sun you’re getting – too much exposure can lead to severe sunburn and even skin cancer.