Vitamin D is called the sunshine vitamin because the human skin makes vitamin D when it is exposed to natural sunlight. However, in modern western society our time in the sun and the use of sunscreens are cutting down on our exposure to the sun, which is good to prevent skin cancer, but could be lowering the production of Vitamin D. Even weak sunscreens (SPF 8) block your body’s ability to generate vitamin D by 95 percent. It is estimated that 40 percent of the U.S. population is vitamin D deficient and 48 percent of young girls (9 to 11 years old) are vitamin D deficient. Vitamin D is perhaps the single most underrated nutrient in the world of nutrition.
Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin and must be dissolved in oil to be absorbed into the body. It is most commonly found it foods that are sources of oil (fat) such as egg yolk, some vegetable oils and fatty fish such as salmon and tuna. This presents a problem when people are trying to cut down on the fat content in their diet. They may also be reducing their vitamin D intake.
The major function of vitamin D is to maintain normal blood levels of calcium and phosphorus to form and maintain strong bones. Without adequate vitamin D, your body cannot absorb calcium, rendering calcium supplements useless. Recently vitamin D has been implicated in other diseases that may go beyond its relationship with calcium and bones. Research suggests that vitamin D deficiency can cause osteoporosis, hypertension, cancer, diabetes, multiple sclerosis and several autoimmune diseases.
The previous daily recommendation for vitamin D intake of 200 to 400IU is inadequate. A new recommendation of 1000 to 2000IU daily is required for protection and prevention of many chronic diseases.
There is a growing body of information on the role of vitamin D in relation to health. It remains unclear whether vitamin D deficiencies are becoming more common because people are shunning the sun and making lifestyle changes or whether it is a long-standing problem that is only now being recognized.
To schedule an appointment for vitamin D recommendations please call Caring for You Health Center, Inc. at 661 284-2400.