More and more research continues to pour in that suggests that plain old vitamin D may be more important to our health and longevity than previously thought. A new study conducted in Austria found that people with a deficiency of vitamin D in their bloodstream or more likely to die (of any health-related cause) than others.
The Austrian study is just the latest in a growing volume of research suggesting that vitamin D has tremendous health benefits, and is instrumental in protecting against heart related problems, cancer, and even tuberculosis. The researcher in charge of the study, Dr Harald Dobnig of the University of Graz in Austria, is quoted by Reuters as saying, “this is the first association study that shows a vitamin D affects mortality regardless of the reason for death.”
The most common source of vitamin D is sunshine. The skin naturally synthesizes vitamin D when exposed to the sun. Vitamin D can also be found in fish, milk and other foods, but in smaller amounts. Approximately 10 minutes out in the sun is enough for most people to absorb a healthy daily dosage of vitamin D. Fair skinned individuals may need even less time in the sun, as their skin pigment tends to be more efficient at producing vitamin D.
Recent studies by Harvard University Medical Center and other esteemed organizations have shown the health benefits of vitamin D. The research suggests it can protect against arterial and heart disease, as well as cancer, tuberculosis and even diabetes. Researchers in the United States are even claiming that vitamin D can extend the lives of individuals affected by colon or rectal cancer, regardless of their prognosis.
With all the good news being reported about the benefits of vitamin D, many doctors in the United States are calling on the FDA to raise the recommended daily allowance (RDA) from 400 units to 1500 units or more.
The recent Austrian study provides evidence that this simple RDA change could save many lives; it found that the risk of death was twice as high for those with low levels of vitamin D in their blood, even when other factors such as pre-existing heart conditions, daily exercise and environmental factors were accounted for.
A growing number of doctors now believe it is important to have between 20 and 30 ng per milliliter of vitamin D in the bloodstream on a daily basis. This is especially important for people who live in low-sunlight northern latitudes, and those who work indoors and do not get sufficient natural sunlight on a daily basis.
Researchers say it is not clear how vitamin D protects against cancer, high blood pressure, and other illnesses; but it is becoming increasingly evident that getting plenty of vitamin D (even from supplement tablets) is one of the best ways to increase overall health and longevity.
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Well when you have heard something more than a dozen times you start to really believe it..SO more sunshine, supplements and eat fish more than a few times a week…It just boils down to simple common sense…Eat your fruit, veggies, fish, whole grains etc.. and you will feel better…carol stanley…author of
For Kids 59.99 and Over”
Comment by carol stanley — June 30, 2008 @ 1:36 pm