Notes on Nutrition: Why you should know your vitamin D status

According to the National Institutes of Health, about 42 percent of the population is deficient in vitamin D. (Dreamstime)

What is your status? That’s a common question, but most people are not thinking of it in terms of their vitamin D status. Most people do not know what their vitamin D level is or if they need to make any changes. According to the National Institutes of Health, about 42 percent of the population is deficient in vitamin D. Plus, that percentage is even higher in certain populations. So with the winter season upon us with dwindling sunlight, now is a good time to focus on where you stand with vitamin D.

Why do we need to pay attention to our vitamin D level? Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin that is an important part of many systems within the body. It is best known for being key in the absorption of calcium from the gut, which translates into stronger bones and teeth. Vitamin D also helps regulate bone density and muscle spasms by maintaining adequate amounts of calcium and phosphate in the blood stream and low vitamin D levels have been linked with bone density concerns in people of all ages. Vitamin D has many other roles within the body including regulating processes associated with cell growth, neuromuscular and immune system support, and blood sugar control. It also can help reduce inflammation within the body.

During the month of January, Hy-Vee dietitians will be offering 1,000 free vitamin D screenings at more than 60 locations throughout our eight-state region. A simple finger stick is all you need to find out your vitamin D level. You can request your free vitamin D screening appointment by contacting your local dietitian. These screenings are sponsored by Vitamine Wellness. Vitamine Wellness is our personalized vitamin subscription program that is designed to help individuals continue to meet their health and wellness goals. You can take a free, 5-minute quiz online at www.vitaminewellness.com for personalized recommendations from our team of dietitians.

For more guidance on meeting your nutrition and wellness goals, you can schedule a free Discovery Session with your local Hy-Vee dietitian to learn more about our different program options, including our Healthy Habits Meal Plan and BEGIN program. And, for a meal that will give you a good vitamin D boost, try making this Creamy Salmon Linguine recipe for dinner tonight.

Nicole Johnson is a dietitian at Hy-Vee Food Stores.

Recipe

Creamy Salmon Linguine

Serves 6

Ingredients

1/2 (16-ounce) package whole-wheat linguine, uncooked

1 bunch fresh broccoli, cut into florets

2 tablespoons unsalted butter

2 cloves garlic, minced

2 cups fat-free half-and-half

2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese

3 tablespoons chopped fresh basil

2 tablespoons Gustare Vita capers, drained

1 pound fully cooked salmon, flaked

1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper

2 teaspoon lemon zest

All you do:

Cook linguine according to package directions, adding broccoli florets during the last 5 minutes of cooking. Drain; set aside.

In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic. Cook and stir for 30 seconds to 1 minute or until fragrant. Stir in half-and-half and lemon juice. Bring to a simmer; reduce heat. Simmer, stirring constantly, 1 to 2 minutes or until slightly thickened.

Stir in Parmesan, basil and capers. Continue cooking until cheese has melted. Add cooked and flaked salmon and continue cooking until heated through. Remove from heat. Toss sauce with linguine and broccoli and lemon zest until well combined. Serve immediately.

Source: www.hy-vee.com