When it comes to maintaining good health, diet and exercise are essential. However, many African Americans face unique health challenges that can make it difficult to get all the nutrients they need from food alone. That’s where supplements can come in. In this blog, we’ll discuss some of the key nutrients that are important for African American health, and how supplements can help fill nutrient gaps.
Vitamin D
Vitamin D is a crucial nutrient that helps the body absorb calcium, build strong bones, and support immune function. However, many African Americans are deficient in vitamin D due to the increased melanin in their skin, which makes it harder to absorb vitamin D from the sun. This deficiency can lead to an increased risk of osteoporosis, diabetes, and certain cancers.
To ensure adequate vitamin D intake, African Americans should aim for a daily intake of 1,000-2,000 IU. This can be achieved through supplements or by consuming vitamin D-rich foods such as fatty fish, egg yolks, and fortified dairy products.