The Sunshine Vitamin

Vitamin D is a powerful health booster. Nicknamed the sunshine vitamin, Vitamin D is the only vitamin our body produces on its own with 10 to 15 minutes of sunlight exposure...but since it's tough to get enough from food and sunlight, especially during non-summer months and if you wear sunscreen, take a supplement to achieve optimal levels.

People who get enough vitamin D have a lower risk of developing type 2 diabetes, according to a study published in Diabetes Care. Experts speculate that the nutrient's anti-inflammatory powers might be one way that it offers protection against the disease.

A growing body of research shows that not getting enough of this nutrient can trigger a slew of health problems—and experts believe that most of us have a vitamin D deficiency. Though current guidelines call for 600 to 800 IU daily, many researchers now believe we may need up to 4,000 IU.

The sunshine vitamin may also help ward off cancer. 77% of cancer patients have low levels of vitamin D, and the lowest levels are linked to more advanced cancers.

Getting enough Vitamin D may also improve asthma. Earlier research found that having low levels may make asthma symptoms worse, and a new study finds that lacking in D could make breathing harder by increasing airway smooth muscle mass in children with treatment-resistant asthma.

Vitamin D is found in multivitamins or stand-alone supplements; it's also commonly coupled with calcium.

FitFlax with flax seed, chia seeds and lignans is also a great source of antioxidants. Enjoy the benefit of flax seed and the benefit of chia seeds with FitFlax.