Vitamin D: Part 2

More has come about the effectiveness of Vitamin D not only for strong bones and muscles; but as a anti-cancer fighter. These controversial results come with the recommendation of the vitamin at "super high doses" as high as 4000 to 8000 IU(international units). These doses may be of added benefit for multiple sclerosis and diabetes mellitus from these amazing studies. These studies reported in the Journal of Anticancer Research come out of the University of California San Diego(UCSD) and Creighton.

These studies are reporting benefits from Vitamin D for  reducing the rate of breast cancer, colon cancer, heart disease, stroke and poor cognitive function. The CDC has reported most Americans do not get enough Vitamin D in their diets.

The American Journal of Obesity show a corellation between the lack of Vitamin D and obesity as well. The link finds that the vitamin's deficiency appears to be related to childhood obesity, diabetes and higher body fat. This may be due to the fact that Vitamin D is a fat soluble vitamin and is dissolved in the high adipose tissue.

Some studies are now looking at Vitamin D's  potential role as an inti-inflammatory agent as well.

But, the biggest impact on our life is with Vitamin D protecting us against cancer. In the International Journal of Low Radiation(2008) there seemed to be evidence that Vitamin protects against radiation damage or radio-induced cancer. It does this by upgregulating genes causing cell regulation, controls for cells differentiation(mutation, damage),  the timing of cell death, and that of new vessel createion that feeds a cancer.

It is beleived that there are 16 cancer types that Vitamin D may help protect against.

What are some good sources for Vitamin D?  First from the the most accessible source of all, the sun. One must be cautious, however,  of the sun's ultra-violet rays so, less than 30 minutes outdoors is enough. Do not forget protective SPF when walking or playing outdoors.  It appears however , that foods are probably  a better source for  your Vitamin D than supplements or even our old friend the  sun.

Other  sources of Vitamin D  include oily fish, eggs, cod liver oil, salmon, tuna, sardines, milk, margarine*(trans fats in margarine is a concern for use), ceral, beef liver and cheese.

When taking Vitamin D supplements make sure you ask for D3(Cholecalciferol) the more biologically active form and   not D2. Unbeknownst to many health providers they typically write prescriptions for the latter.


Dr. Wells, MD,MPH is a past clinical associate of the NIH -National Heart , Lung & Blood Institute. His tenure included a post at the US Public Health Service, US Health & Human Services at this same. Learn more about Dr. Wells and Vitamin D at   http://www.fitfamily360.com/