Issue link: http://www.wacmagazine.com/i/742965
26 | Washington Athletic Club Magazine | NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2016 N ow that fall is here, and winter is right around the corner, many of us are bracing for cold and flu season. Flu shots, vitamin C, chicken noodle soup, antiviral herbal supplements … the list of preventive measures goes on and on. But one of the least mentioned prophylactics is actually one of the most effective—vitamin D. Vitamin D is one of several hormones that originate from cholesterol. An enzyme in specialized skin cells turns cholesterol into a precursor of vitamin D. When this precursor is exposed to ultraviolet light from the sun, vitamin D is synthesized. Our bodies need adequate vitamin D for several reasons, including: • It helps increase calcium and potassium levels, keeping bones healthy and strong. • It has been shown in several studies to help protect against autoimmune diseases and even certain cancers. • It plays a crucial role in immune system functioning. Wellness By Dr. Tressa Pinkleton, WAC Naturopath V itamin D, or the "sunshine vitamin," is unfortunately often taken for granted. A warm summer, a mid-winter beach getaway, or an occasional sunny day when we least expect it, and we feel fully recharged. It takes more than that, however. Much more! Air quality, use of sunscreen, and skin tone can all impact how much vitamin D we absorb. But for us living in the Pacific Northwest, the challenges don't end there. We've turned to WAC Naturopath Dr. Tressa Pinkleton for clarification on the benefits of vitamin D and suggestions for how to stay ahead of vitamin D deficiency. Some of these methods can be administered right here in our WAC Wellness Center. For more information, contact the Wellness Center and set up an appointment. Suzana Sakay oversees the Wellness Center, Spa at the WAC, and various Club projects. Contact her at ssakay@wac.net or 206.464.3069. This winter, shine on Flu season and you The amazing role of vitamin D and why you don't have enough