For a very long time it was just assumed that as long as there was sunshine, we would get a sufficient amount of vitamin D. But with changing times and different lifestyles, many of us might not be getting enough vitamin D into our bodies.

Vitamin D is synthesized in our skin. And while exposure as brief as 30 minutes is beneficial, many of us don't spend even that amount of time in the sun, especially in the winter. There are several reasons for this. For example, we have been told for quite some time about the dangers of getting too much sun. Also, many of us would rather spend our free time under artificial light with our faces in our iPhones and other electronic devices. After all, it is difficult to see your Instagram feed in the glaring sun.

Milk has been fortified with vitamin D. However, we are drinking less milk than we were even just 10 or 20 years ago. According to the United States Department of Agriculture, overall consumption of cow’s milk has decreased by 30 percent over the last four decades. There are reasons for this as well.

Our attitudes about milk have been changing. Many people feel that cow’s milk is not healthy for humans. Others feel it is cruel to steal cow’s milk or feel the cows in the dairy industry are abused. A certain part of the population is simply lactose intolerant.

Whatever the reasons, many Americans simply aren't getting the recommended dose of vitamin D and that needs to change. Ameriden, your source for Rhodiola Rosea, offers you the vital functions of vitamin D.

Cognitive Function

There have been recent studies that show a connection between low levels of vitamin D and cognitive impairment in older adults. Research shows that vitamin D has a variety of neuroprotective roles, including helping the brain get rid of the abnormal protein that is believed to be a major cause of Alzheimer’s disease. Another study showed that seniors with very low levels of vitamin D had twice the risk of Alzheimer's disease.

Weight Loss

When you are lacking vitamin D, you feel hungry all of the time. No matter what you eat, you feel like you need more. This is because vitamin D affects the effectiveness of leptin, the appetite hormone that signals you when you are full.

When vitamin D levels are low, leptin does not function properly. When you have normal levels of vitamin D, your feelings of satiety helps when losing weight.

Mood

There is scientific evidence that you feel blue when you don't have a sufficient amount of vitamin D in your body. Low levels of vitamin D have always been associated with higher instances of depression. If you are feeling blue, it could be because you have low levels of vitamin D.

Kidneys

Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin that plays a role in kidney function. It is even used in treating kidney disease.

Heart

Studies have shown a relationship between vitamin D levels and high blood pressure. Research shows that people with lower levels of vitamin D have higher blood pressure and people with normal levels of vitamin D have lower blood pressure. High blood pressure causes excess strain on coronary arteries serving the heart and increases the risk of a heart attack.

Lungs

Vitamin D possess a range of anti-inflammatory properties, which helps keep your lungs healthy.

Bones

It is well-documented and common knowledge that vitamin D is essential for the proper absorption of calcium. It has also been shown to greatly reduce the risk of bone fractures. Vitamin D helps with the formation of stronger bones and it helps improve balance, which prevents falls that can break bones.

Immunity

You have vitamin D receptors all over your body. This includes immune cells. Research has concluded that a vitamin D deficiency leads to lower immunity and a greater chance of falling ill due to seasonal colds and flu. This is part of the reason why we tend to get sick more often in the winter, because we get less sunlight.

Are vitamins and minerals necessary? If vitamins and minerals aren’t necessary why do so many manufacturers put them in our foods; especially vitamin A, B, C, D and the minerals calcium, magnesium, copper and iron? Visit Ameriden today and enjoy free shipping in the continental U.S.