Eagle & Fein - July/August 2024

FOOD FOR THOUGHT The Importance of a Vitamin D-Rich Diet

Vitamin D, best known as the “sunshine vitamin,” is uniquely both a nutrient we eat and a hormone our body makes when exposed to sunlight. While our bodies need vitamin D to absorb calcium, allowing us to build and fortify our bones, it does far more than that. The fat-soluble vitamin is also an anti-inflammatory and helps our brains and immune systems function. According to the Mayo Clinic, the daily recommendation for vitamin D intake for the vast majority of the population is around 600 international units or IU. However, unlike many other nutrients, not many foods naturally contain a large amount of vitamin D. Whether natural or fortified, here are the best foods to add to your diet to help you hit the recommended daily vitamin D intake. Natural Sources of Vitamin D If you are searching for a natural vitamin D source, you will likely have to get your feet wet. Some of

the best natural sources of vitamin D are fatty fish like salmon, herring, sardines, and tuna. While a 3.5-ounce serving of farmed salmon contains about 526 IU, a serving of wild-caught salmon may contain significantly more and may even exceed the daily recommendation. A 3.5-ounce serving of herring or sardines will net you around 200 IU, or about a third of your daily recommended vitamin D. You can also obtain trace amounts of vitamin D from foods such as egg yolks, cheese, and beef liver. Artificial Sources of Vitamin D If you do not mind using artificial sources to hit your daily recommended dose of vitamin D, then your best bet is a supplement. A great source is cod liver oil, which contains 450 IU of vitamin D per teaspoon. For those who don’t enjoy seafood, fortified milk is a great way to hit your daily recommended intake.

No matter how you acquire your vitamin D, the benefits are worth the

effort. From helping revitalize cell growth to keeping your bones strong and healthy, vitamin D is a nutrient you should consider incorporating more of into your diet.

THE ESSENTIAL GUIDE TO ESTATE PLANNING FOR BLENDED FAMILIES Protect Your ‘Brady Bunch’ Family’s Future

Why Act Now? Procrastination in estate planning can lead to significant family strife and legal challenges after a parent’s death. It is imperative for parents in blended families to start planning early to ensure their wishes are clearly understood and legally documented. Waiting until it is too late can lead to unintended consequences that could permanently affect familial relationships and financial stability. Seek Professional Guidance Given the complexities involved, consulting with an experienced estate planning attorney is crucial. An expert can offer tailored advice that reflects your family’s unique circumstances and goals, ensuring your estate plan is robust and effective. Take Action Today If you are part of a blended family or know someone who is, now is the time to take action. Protect your loved ones and ensure your wishes are honored by establishing a comprehensive estate plan. Contact us today to schedule a consultation. Let us help you secure your family’s future and provide peace of mind, knowing that your estate will be handled according to your wishes. Don’t wait — plan for tomorrow by taking steps today.

In the tapestry of modern families, blended families or “Brady Bunch” families have become increasingly common. This change in family dynamics presents unique challenges in estate planning, particularly in ensuring assets are distributed according to the parents’ wishes while caring for the needs of a surviving spouse and children from different marriages. The Importance of Bloodline Protection One critical aspect of estate planning for blended families is bloodline protection. This strategy is designed to ensure that your assets pass directly to your biological children and not just your spouse, who may then pass them on to their children or a new partner. Without a clear plan, there’s a risk that a deceased parent’s intentions might not be honored, potentially leaving their biological children without their rightful inheritance. It is a story most of us hear often, but it is entirely preventable. Create a Balanced Estate Plan Crafting an estate plan that addresses the needs of the surviving spouse and the biological children is essential. Tools such as trusts, and specified beneficiary designations can help achieve this balance. These legal instruments can provide for the surviving spouse during their lifetime while preserving the inheritance for biological children. This thoughtful approach ensures that all family members are cared for and minimizes potential conflicts.

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