It was 2009 when I was listened to an interview with one of the candidates for the Surgeon General of the United States.  He said that if he was offered the position, one of the first things he would do would be to implement vitamin D testing as a part of a routine physical blood work.  He said that in his own practice, the majority of his patients were severely deficient.  

 

First, why is Vitamin D so important?  There have been correlations with the following ailments and low Vitamin D levels:

 

• Respiratory Problems/Asthma
• Breast Cancer
• Muscle Weakness
• Diabetes
• Flu
• Cardiovascular Disease
• Schizophrenia and Depression
• Periodontal Disease
• Psoriasis
• Poor Growth in children
• Bone Pain

 

In fact, two recent studies in the journal Pediatrics found that 70 percent of American kids aren't getting enough vitamin D, and this puts them at higher risk of obesity, diabetes, high blood pressure and lower levels of good cholesterol.   Low vitamin D levels also may increase a child's risk of developing heart disease later in life.

 

Of course, the best source of Vitamin D is to walk outside and soak up the sun.  However, the dermatological concerns of skin cancer have resulted in the use of sunscreen, which inhibits the body from absorbing this valuable vitamin.  In addition, some geographical areas make it more challenging to be outside than others.

 

Be sure to eat foods that are rich in vitamin D which include:

 

• Eggs (in the yolk)
• Mackerel
• Sock eye salmon
• Sardines
• Cod liver oil
• Tuna
• Organic milk or yogurt with fortified D
• Mushrooms

Keep in mind that those with darker skin tend to be more prone to Vitamin D deficiency than those with lighter skin.  Also, aging skin produces less Vitamin D.   A person at age 70 produces about 25% less than that of a 20-year old.

 

Supplementation is also a great alternative.  There are many different guidelines but it would seem that the government guidelines may be too modest at 200 IU  with a maximum of 1000 IUs per day. Dr. Mark Hyman, recognized leader in the treatment of chronic illness and New York Times Best selling Author suggests that "if you have a deficiency, you should correct it with 5,000 to 10,000 IU of vitamin D3 a day for three months--but only under a doctor's supervision. For maintenance, take 2,000 to 4,000 IU a day of vitamin D3.  Some people may need higher doses over the long run to maintain optimal levels because of differences in vitamin D receptors, living in northern latitudes, indoor living, or skin color."  

 

Just be sure that the vitamin D  is D3 and not D2 (the synthetic version that is sometimes prescribed by doctors).  D3 is the most natural that your will absorb most easily.

 

Just "Do it" and get your D.  You'll be amazed at the difference one vitamin can make.

  

How are you going to get your D?  Let's have a conversation  Jill the Health Coach FB page 

Please feel free to contact me at Jill the Health Coach.com

All material in this newsletter is provided for information only and may not be construed as medical advice or instruction.  No action or inaction should be taken based solely on the contents of this publication;instead readers should consult appropriate health professionals on any matter relating to their health and well-being.  The information provided has not been approved the Food & Drug Administration and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any illness or disease.