There is definitely a close connection between vitamin D deficiency and infertility. Some recent studies have shown that vitamin D improves the production of estrogen hormone. Also some conditions like being obese or diabetes can affect the person’s ability to conceive. Unfortunately these two conditions are linked to the deficiency of vitamin D.
How can I get enough vitamin D?
There are three main ways in which you can increase your vitamin D levels. These are; sunshine, vitamin D rich foods, and vitamin D supplements.
Vitamin D and sunshine
Vitamin D is produced once the sun rays reach our skin. However, in some countries, during the winter season there is not enough sunlight to make enough of this vitamin. There are also other factors which prevent us to get enough sunshine like cloudy weather, tall buildings, air pollution, etc. Also, people with dark skin pigmentation need absorb this vitamin much less than people with light skin.
When we try to get adequate doses of vitamin D from the sun, we have to take care and avoid getting sunburns. This increases the chances of skin cancers. Therefore a moderate sunlight exposure is highly recommended.
Vitamin D and recommended foods
If there are some reasons why we can’t get enough vitamin D from the sun, we have to try this other method and enrich our diet with vitamin D rich foods. Foods which can be put into this category are: cod liver oil, salmon, herrings, egg yolks, liver, etc.
Using vitamin D supplements
If you are considering to use vitamin D supplements it is recommended to visit your doctor first. Check your vitamin D levels with a calcidiol test and you will get the right dosage of vitamin D supplements. Ideally, your vitamin D levels should be around 40-50 ng/mL. In most cases your doctor will recommend taking 3000-4000IU/day. This amount depends on several different factors like age, vitamin D rich foods intake and sunshine exposure. Some people have to be very cautious when using vitamin D supplements. This group includes people suffering from liver and kidney problems, hyperparathyroidism, tuberculosis, etc.
So, in order to increase your fertility take good care of your vitamin D levels. This will also protect you from some diseases connected with low vitamin D (obesity, diabetes, hypertension) and of course, you will feel much better. As you already know, you can easily improve your vitamin D levels. Just go outside and include some of the foods we have mentioned in your diet.