You've heard the old joke - to lose weight do push aways: grasp the edge of the table firmly and push yourself away. It is becoming ever clearer that the same is true for your computer workstaion. Get off your butt and play in the sun.

The sunshine vitamin is looking brighter. This past week, scientists have found vitamin D can do more than form and maintain strong bones. According to new research, it may prevent diabetes, inhibit the growth of breast cancer cells and reduce the risk of children developing multiple sclerosis later in life. In addition, the vitamin has been linked to more muscle power in teen girls. With all these added benefits, looks like it’s time to load up on some D. . .

Unfortunately, getting the recommended amount of D is not so easy. “There are not a lot of natural food sources,” says Katherine Zeratsky, a dietician with Mayo Clinic. Fish such as salmon and tuna along with dairy products like cheese contain some of the vitamin, but mostly we receive it through fortified food like milk, cereal, orange juice, yogurt and margarine. “We are meant to get vitamin D from the sun,” says Zeratsky. But with limited amounts of food sources and the threat of cancer through prolonged UV radiation (sunscreens limit the amount of D the body can absorb), many people are not getting enough.

There is also evidence that vitamin D deficiency may partly explain the winter blahs, or Seasonal affective disorder (SAD). It is reported to have profound effects on the brain, including some neurotransmitters involved in depression, especially in older folks. It is also involved in calcium absorption and so a factor in osteoporosis, another age related problem.

Another source of D that may be of interest to you is red wine - the wonder food. I must also add that milk, cheese and red meats from pasture raised animals are higher in D. So, frolic outside for a time then sit in the sun for a bit while drinking some wine and eating some artisanal cheeses. It may elevate your mood, not least due to an awareness that you have done your body good.