Vitamin D has been very closely studied over the last 5-10 years and the health effects are far ranging. Vitamin D plays a role in bone health, immune support, neurological function and even helps to regulate blood sugar levels.  Dr. Howe routinely evaluates Vitamin D levels through bloodwork in her patients.  Vitamin D deficiency has been linked to multiple pain syndromes including migraine, neck/back pain and fibromyalgia.

Vitamin D can be obtained from dietary sources including wild salmon, wild tuna, eggs, almonds, tofu and shiitake mushrooms.

How can you get a natural source of Vitamin D in your diet?  Check out this recipe for Miso Soup.  It has several ingredients that help to boost vitamin D levels, but this recipe is high in sodium so this is not for everyone.  You can try low sodium soy sauce and low sodium broth if you are willing to sacrifice a little flavor!

 

Miso Soup Recipe

 

Enjoy!

Amy Lindsay Howe, M.D.