BY CLAIR WHITTY
This is a common question that I get asked. I was delighted to have a chat with nutritional therapist, Dr Barbara Barrett at Wild Atlantic Health.
Barbara recently completed a PhD in natural medicine and is an expert in Vitamin D3 and K2. We talked about the benefits of Vitamin D for bone health, and how having adequate levels in the elderly can help counter the decline in immunity and slow ageing. Barbara explained that Vitamin D is a hormone and regulates over 2000 genes, playing a key role in slowing the “hallmarks of ageing”, from mitochondrial health to DNA repair. Adding Vitamin K2 can reduce neuronal death in Alzheimer’s and may lower dementia risk by 40%. Vitamin A boosts immunity, it’s excellent for skin, eye health, (a common challenge for the ageing), and cellular health. We discussed how in Ireland 50% of adults are low or deficient in Vitamin D and up to 500,000 people suffer from osteoporosis and osteopenia which is linked to deficiency. Considering our northern latitude, we get minimal UV light from October to April each year. Even during summer most people’s levels are likely to be half of that needed for optimal health. Ageing, indoor lifestyles, sunscreens and higher BMI all limit Vitamin D production and absorption.
Barbara says that sun exposure is key to increasing levels naturally. However, to see improvements we need approximately 20 minutes on the face, arms and legs (without sunblock), when the sun is at its high point. Living in Ireland, this isn’t always possible which is why Wild Atlantic Health developed their unique D3+K2+A supplement.
She explained that Vitamin D3 and K2 work better together and should be taken with a fat-containing meal. 3,000 IU is an ideal daily, enhancing energy, sleep and thyroid function thereby supporting healthy ageing. Take a look at the Irish brand Wild Atlantic, their supplement contains 3,000 IU of Vitamin D3 and has the highest K2 dose of 300 mcg. This helps prevent arterial calcification, promoting cardiovascular health and channelling calcium to the bones, limiting frailty, and promoting longevity.
For more information and advice about Wild Atlantic’s Vitamin trio D3+K2+ A, call in to see us at Market Cross Shopping Centre.
Always consult with your health care professional if you are on any medication.
Natural Health Store, Market Cross Shopping Centre
Phone: 056 7764538
Email: info@naturalhealthstore.ie
