More and more studies are revealing the benefits of having plenty of D—and the dangers of having too little. I discovered a new doctor a few years ago that was doing testing to make sure all of my vitamin levels and water intake were sufficient. Through that testing he discovered that my vitamin D and Omega 3’s were low. He recommended I take 2000 I.U.’s a day of vitamin D and explained how Omega 3’s protect the outer layer of mitochondria that when damaged, contributes to the aging process. I was always erratic with my vitamin intake because I wasn’t really sure if I needed everything that was in the multi-vitamin I was taking. After being tested I found out that I was right and I didn’t need everything in a typical multi vitamin, all I needed were the two. He also suggested collagen for anti-aging, both oral and topical, as well as melatonin because I wasn’t sleeping well. Insomnia runs in my family. I started taking 3mg of melatonin every night because the doctor told me that as we age, we lose melatonin, which is naturally occurring in our system. I found that 3mg was too much for me and made me feel groggy the next day. I found 1mg chewable, mint flavored, at Trader Joe’s. I take 2 of those every night, with my Sleepy time tea, and I’ve been sleeping trough the night ever since.
After 1 year I was re-tested to see if my vitamin levels had changed and they are right on track. I now have more energy, and am feeling and looking younger than ever. Thanks to a good night sleep, and my renewed energy levels. As a result of my increased energy and my vitamin levels being on track I work out more and harder, thus I can see why they call it the vitamin that helps you lose weight!
