Sure, we hear all the time about the benefits of vitamin C, vitamin A, and of course all those good-for-you B vitamins, but chances are you’ve been hearing lately about another vitamin too—one that’s also important for your body and your health: vitamin D.

Research shows that vitamin D helps with a wide range of health conditions, but unfortunately most people don’t get enough of this beneficial nutrient in their daily diets. Studies have even shown that people low in vitamin D are at risk for many different illnesses and diseases, but what I want to talk about is the importance of vitamin D when it comes to a healthy gut.

A recent study found that vitamin D plays a big role in the body’s response to harmful Salmonella bacteria in the intestines (salmonella bacteria are the most frequently reported cause of foodborne illness in the U.S.). Specifically, scientists found that vitamin D is especially effective at helping to quell inflammation caused by Salmonella in the gut. 

The bottom line? If you’re not taking a vitamin D supplement, you should be!  Vitamin D is widely available and inexpensive—just make sure you take vitamin D3 since it’s easiest for your body to absorb and use. Remember also to take vitamin D with a meal that contains fat, since it’s a fat-soluble vitamin. Or better yet, look for a daily Omega oil supplement with preferrably 1000 IU added vitamin D3 to get even more healthy benefits!