There are so many things you have to think about when you have an eczema flare-up.
It can be hard to know what will actually help.
Through your research, you’ve probably come across the benefits of Vitamin D.
But does Vitamin D Help Eczema? What are the benefits?
This may come as a surprise, but this is actually a well-known fact that Vitamin D can help eczema.
So, let’s find out what Vitamin D is, how it can help eczema, and whether or not it really works.
Table of Contents
Toggle1. What is Vitamin D?
Even though it is called Vitamin D, it is actually a hormone that our body makes.
When the sun’s energy and rays touch our skin, the biological process turns that energy into Vitamin D3.
Our liver and then kidney transforms it into what we call active Vitamin D.
Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin that is known for its role in regulating calcium and phosphorus levels in the body.
It is also important for the immune system, bone health, and mood.
Now that you know Vitamin D is made through our skin, I know that your mind is trying to process how and does Vitamin D help eczema?!
2. How Vitamin D Can Help Eczema?
Vitamin D is known to help with the itching and inflammation that comes along with eczema.
Its anti-inflammatory properties can help to minimize redness and swelling.
It is also a nutrient that is often lacking in individuals who live in the northern parts of the world where there is less sunlight.
You won’t see improvements within days or weeks.
You will need to be consistent about your Vitamin D intake to see any meaningful change so I suggest you start today.
3. Vitamin D Sources
Vitamin D is often found in fortified foods and supplements.
Below is a list of food sources with Vitamin D but it still does not replace the fact that you need to spend time outdoors.
- Cod liver oil
- Salmon
- Swordfish
- Tuna fish
- Orange juice fortified with vitamin D
- Dairy and plant milk fortified with vitamin D
- Sardines
- Beef liver
- Egg yolk
- Fortified cereals
You should aim to spend at least 30mins outdoors every day while incorporating the foods above.
During the winter time, it is highly recommended to supplement with Vitamin D.
But how much do I take?
4. Recommend Amounts
When it comes to supplements, there is the Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA). This guideline lists the daily amount needed for the general healthy population.
It does not take into consideration if you have eczema or are deficient in it.
There is also the Tolerable Upper Intake Level (UL) which is a guideline of the maximum daily intake that is unlikely to cause harmful effects.
If you are new to this, I would advise speaking with your Family Doctor to find out your Vitamin D levels through a blood test.
According to Health Canada, the RDA for Children and Adults 9 – 70 years is 600 IU (15 mcg or micrograms).
The Tolerable Upper Intake Level (UL) for Children and Adults 9 – 70 years is 4000 IU (100 micrograms).
So if you have eczema or dealing with topical steroid withdrawal, I highly recommend staying on top of Vitamin D.
You won’t see the benefits immediately but over time, along with your other healthy habits, you will heal.
More Sunny D Please
So, does Vitamin D help eczema? The short answer is yes, it does.
Vitamin D is essential for the health of the skin and the immune system.
Most people who have eczema have low levels of vitamin D in their bodies.
Additionally, the skin is the largest organ of the human body and the skin absorbs vitamin D.
But Vitamin D alone won’t help you heal.
You will need to change your lifestyle to support your mind, body and skin to heal.
Vitamin D is a great place to start.
But once you have that routine, the next best place to start is with your nutrition.
Eat healthy wholesome foods to nourish you from the inside out.
This can all sounds very daunting and overwhelming.
This is why I created the XZMA Healing Program!
I was once in your shoes.
My skin literally falling apart.
Anxious.
Depressed.
Lost.
I then found my way and want to show you the way too.
Don’t worry whether or not does Vitamin D help eczema.
Let’s help you heal holistically, head to toe.