VITAMIN D
|
VITAMIN D DEFICIENCY The deficiency of vitamin D is contributing too many of the diseases we suffer today according to recent studies. Our bodies are designed to obtain the vitamin through exposure to sunlight. The food we eat contains very little of this compound. As the life styles changed humans spend a much smaller percentage of time outdoors. In addition, as migration moved north, many are even less exposed to sunlight in the winter. Living in the sunny climes however, does not insure one will have enough of the vitamin. The dietary sources are quite limited. Milk often has some. An eight ounce glass of milk might have 100 IU but other dairy products have little or none. Some fish such as salmon, mackerel and sardines do contain some 200-360 IU per a 3.5 ounce serving. Cereal producers may supplement with 40-100 IU. HOW MUCH VITAMIN D? The amount one should take is often considered to be 2,000 IU per day or more. In the winter months, those living in the upper part of the Midwest should supplement up to 4,000 IU per day. During the flu season it is often recommended that intake be 5,000 IU per day. Dr. Whitaker has even suggested that one might consume 12,000 IU per day for up to seven days to reduce the effect of flue onset. Very few people are coming close to this amount of intake. For those who are dark skinned, it is most important to take a higher dosage. The pigment in the skin acts as a natural sunscreen. As a result African Americans are the most deficient of all. It is important to supplement with D3 rather than D2 as it has a 70% better absorption rate. One also needs to be aware of the amount per capsule. While more manufacturers now provide capsules in 1,000 and 5,000 IU’s many only contain some 400 IU. To get the needed amount supplement with a specific D3 supplement rather than one in combination with calcium or other vitamins. Do however be aware of your intake from any other combinations. Generally, supplementing with D3 does not present any issues. Very high doses for a long period of time could elevate calcium levels. This could adversely affect nerve and muscle function and contribute to kidney stones. One should consult with their health care provider before beginning a very high dosage for any extended period of time. VITAMIN D COUNCIL Dr. John Cannell of the Vitamin D Council suggests that one have their 25-hydroxyvitamin D level checked twice each year; in early spring and early fall. He goes on to state that he takes 5,000 IU in the late fall, winter, and early spring. He varies the dose the rest of the time dependent upon his sun exposure. His 10 year old daughter takes 2,000 units per day while his three year old takes 1,000 IU per day in the winter months. The benefits of D are gaining more and more attention. For those who have a low blood count of D, raising it can help with those issues that contribute to hear disease and heart attack. · Blood pressure · Healthy blood sugar · Insulin resistance · Inflammation Evidence continues to mount that coronary risk benefits from supplementing with D3. We will endeavor to provide additional information on many health risks that can be addressed with this low cost, effective compound. |
This site does not, nor would it ever, provide medical advice.
For anyone with a medical condition, or using prescribed drugs, consult with your health care provider before making any changes in your treatment procedure.
Information on this site should never be considered as a substitute for professional medical advice.
This site only provides information for those who are interested in a med (drug) free life style. By definition, their health must be in a state where prescription drugs are not required. Any substitution for prescription drugs should only be made after consultation with one’s health care provider.
Should anyone have any doubts as to their need for health care advice, one should seek it out without delay.
For anyone with a medical condition, or using prescribed drugs, consult with your health care provider before making any changes in your treatment procedure.
Information on this site should never be considered as a substitute for professional medical advice.
This site only provides information for those who are interested in a med (drug) free life style. By definition, their health must be in a state where prescription drugs are not required. Any substitution for prescription drugs should only be made after consultation with one’s health care provider.
Should anyone have any doubts as to their need for health care advice, one should seek it out without delay.