Fun in the sun is not really a phrase which has been applicable for most Southern Albertans as of late. In fact, the word sun has been somewhat lacking in our vocabularies.

 With the current weather conditions that have been hitting Lethbridge, the last thing citizens want to do is to go outside and absorb the sun’s rays. However, studies are showing that the limited amount of sun that people are getting is having an effect on the amount of vitamin D that they are producing – and this could be damaging to their health.

“The government is suggesting people take 1,200 units per day,” said Ryan Oliver, a representative of Oliver Health Foods.

“I personally take more than that. The farther north you are the more you may need.”’

Health studies are proving that our northern location is indeed contributing to the minimal amount of vitamin D that we are receiving. In the U.S., the average person receives 320 units of vitamin D a day, less than half of the recommended amount. Given out location, it is likely that Canadians receive even less.

Running out and purchasing vitamin D supplements may not be on every person’s top to-do list, but the benefits do seem to outweigh the costs (a bottle of 180 tablets costs under $10)

“Vitamin D helps prevent depression, colon, prostate and breast cancer, and it decreases the chances of having a second heart attack,” says Oliver. “It also plays a big role in preventing osteoporosis.”

Other medical professionals that Oliver quoted believe that vitamin D can also protect against cold and flu.

Though there has been much focus on vitamin D in the media, Oliver also points out that people should also look to other vitamin supplements to enrich their health. “Everyone should supplement with omega 3 from fish oil. You can also make a strong case for multi vitamins.”