Take me out to the ball game!

I went to the White Sox game on Saturday.  Nice day, not too chilly, and I soaked up a little Vitamin D sitting on the third base side of the park.  I walked into the park ready for lunch which is not a good thing.  It's akin to going to the grocery store before dinner!

I decided to use my search for healthy ball park food as the fodder for this post.  Well, healthy and ball park food is an oxymoron.  It really isn't possible to eat well and watch the game.  The best I could find was the soft pretzel (~450 cal), the veggie burger (~200 cal without bun), or the red ropes (~200 cal).  My suggestion is when you go to the game either don't worry about what you're consuming for that event or eat before you go and a money saving tip: take a bottle with you to refill with water.

As summer approaches you will likely have more opportunity to eat ball park-like food at family gatherings or backyard bar-b-ques.  Keep your commitment to your health by coming to pilates and you won't have to worry about consuming the usual party fare that's available.

Go, go, go, go White Sox!!

Depths of Winter

We are in the throws of winter (minus the snow thus far) and that means limited sun exposure which can compromise your Vitamin D absorption.  There is no agreement on the best way to make sure you get enough vitamin D.  Since we live above 42' latitude (if you're in Chicago) and don't have access to much sun from November to March you might want to monitor how much vitamin D you're getting from what you're consuming.

Basic Nutrition Review of Vitamin D
1. It keeps blood levels of calcium and phosphorus and helps the body utilize these two minerals. So, it plays a key role in building bones and teeth.
2. It may have a beneficial effect on the immune system.
3. It may reduce the risk of osteoporosis and there may be a link between vitamin D and a reduced risk of colon cancer.

The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism current guidelines for vitamin D supplement is: Adults aged 19-15 require at least 600 IU/d of vitamin D to maximize bone health and muscle function.
Adults aged 50-70 and 70+ require at least 600 and 800 IU/d respectively.
To get your blood levels above a recommended level you may have to take 1500-2000 IU/d.
Read the full PDF guidelines for Evaluation, Treatment, and Prevention of Vitamin D Deficiency.


You can also get vitamin D from fatty fish, e.g. salmon or fortified foods such as milk, cereals, breads, and flours.  I've been drinking almond milk which has as much vitamin D as cow's milk and it's delicious.