THE TERRIFIC TWO - VITAMIN D AND ZINC
Our body needs a number of nutrients to keep it healthy. Let's take a look at how Vitamin D and Zinc help us and what we should be eating to ensure that our body receives a good supply if these two important nutrients.
Vitamin D - Benefits
- Vitamin D is often called the sunshine vitamin as it is produced by our body in response to sunlight. It has many benefits that include:-
- Strengthens bones and teeth
- Boosts immune system
- Regulates insulin
- Helps in managing diabetes
- Supports lung function
- Keeps the heart healthy
- Protects against diseases like cancer, multiple sclerosis etc
- Regulates calcium and phosphorous levels
Also Read: Are Vitamin Supplements Good For You?
Sources of Vitamin D
- Sunlight is the most common and effective source of Vitamin D. It is recommended that people have some sun exposure on a daily basis. With our air conditioned and sheltered lifestyles, sun exposure for human beings has decreased. But, you can get your supply of Vitamin D in other forms like:-
- Fish oil
- Fatty fish like salmons and sardines
- Some varieties of mushrooms
- Egg yolks
- Milk
- Yoghurt
- Cereals
- Oatmeal
- Cheese
Health benefits of zinc
- Zinc is a lesser known mineral that our body needs to stay healthy. Some of the reasons that zinc is important to our health are:-
- It boosts the immune system
- Helps fight the common cold
- Has an antiviral effect
- Prevents build up of bacteria in mucus passages
- Is a powerful antioxidant
- Decreases risk of cancer
- Prevents hormone imbalances
- Helps in regulating insulin production
- Is good for heart health
- Reduces digestive problems
- Helps muscle growth and repair
Food sources high in zinc include:-
- Lamb
- Chicken
- Channa
- Cashewnuts
- Pumpkin seeds
- Yoghurt
- Eggs
- Salmon
- Mushrooms As you can see, many of the foodstuffs that are high in Vitamin D are high in zinc too. Though the "Incredible Two" don't interact directly, they have complementary effects on several organs in your body.
