Vitamin D:

Why it is important:

• Strengthens and maintains bone health. Helps body absorb calcium. Supports breast, colon and prostate health (Nature Made).

• Supports heart wellness: "Vitamin D is used for conditions of the heart and blood vessels, including high blood pressure and high cholesterol. It is also used for diabetes, obesity, muscle weakness,multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma, bronchitis, premenstrual syndrome (PMS), and tooth and gum disease" (WebMD).

• Depression, maternal health... "In the past few years, studies have shown that a lack of the vitamin may be the primary culprit in depression, heart disease, pregnancy problems, birth defects, skin and other cancers, and multiple sclerosis" (Women's Health Magazine).

How to increase levels of Vitamin D:

• Very few foods provide adequate amounts of vitamin D (click here for a list of foods and their vitamin D content). Some foods are supplemented with vitamin D, though, such as milk.

• Most vitamin D is obtained through sunlight. Another efficient source is through supplements. (Can't decide which brand of supplements to buy? My grandma said that she tried a couple, but only when she switched to Costco's Kirkland Signature brand did the doctors see a difference in her vitamin D levels).

• For more in depth information about vitamin D, check out this dietary supplement fact sheet.