A Healthy Dose of Vitamin D

Did you know that the sun can be your best defense in fighting colds and flu? It's also an excellent source of vitamin D. Would you like to boost your immunity against many different types of colds, flu's and other pesky bugs? Then try vitamin D, which you can get in pill form, or from a healthy dose of the sun. In studies done by the University of Colorado Denver School, to determine the vitamin D nutrient's effect on respiratory infections; researchers found that those with low Vitamin D levels were 36% more likely to catch colds than those who had higher vitamin D levels. Studies also show that about 80% of Americans are vitamin D deficient. Doctor's say when our bodies are lacking the all important vitamin D, they don't produce enough of a protein called cathelicidin. Cathelicidin helps the immune system fight off infections. Cathelicidin also is very important in killing viruses and bacteria.

The association between Vitamin D or depletion of it; the protein cathelicidin and the risk of people with lung disease, such as asthma and emphysema becoming sick were much higher than people without respiratory problems. The risk doubled in those with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Its also been shown that those suffering from a vitamin D deficiency are 62% more likely to develop multiple sclerosis. And women have a much higher risk of developing breast cancer when their Vitamin D levels are low. Doctors suggest that 2,000 IU of Vitamin D should be the maximum limit taken by adults. exceeding this can cause kidney stones, as well as cause damage to the heart, lungs and blood vessels.

The bottom line is that most American's could use more vitamin D, it is a very important nutrient for human health. So it is recommended by nutritionists that everyone make it a priority to take a vitamin D supplement daily. However you shouldn't exceed the daily limit recommended. There is also a test you can take to see if you have an adequate vitamin D level. This is a very simple blood test called 25- hydroxyvitamin D. Which is the best way to determine what your vitamin D level is. The current recommendation for daily vitamin D intake ranges anywhere from 200 to 600 IU per day. However, the amount needed for immune health is considerably higher. More studies are needed to determine just what those levels are.

To get more information on vitamin D health benefits visit www.cbc.ca/health/story/2008/05/26/vitamind, or www.optimalhealth.com