Today I want to talk to you about the hormone vitamin D. Ideally you should be monitoring this lab regularly. Vitamin D has multiple purposes in the body. It is estimated that over 80% of people are deficient. Low vitamin D is associated with increased risk of cancer, osteoporosis and heart disease. The most important function of vitamin D is in regulating the immune system. Adequate vitamin D is associated with a decreased risk of both bacterial and viral infections.
Vitamin D therapy
The ideal vitamin D level is 70-90. The best way to get vitamin D is from 20 minutes in the sun with no sunscreen on in the middle of the day in a tank top or bathing suit (the more skin exposed the better). Getting sun without sunscreen for 20 minutes will not burn the skin unless you are on certain medications. Check with your doctor to identify which medications cause sensitivity to the sun. If you are unable to get in the sun or you live somewhere that has long winters, you need to supplement with a quality Vitamin D3 supplement. The dose should be 5000-10000iu/day. Vitamin D3 should be taken by lunch time with fatty foods and a Vitamin K2 supplement. You cannot get adequate vitamin D from foods (including milk). Don't get me started on milk. To learn more about how vitamins and nutrition effect your health contact us at www.celebrateprimarycare.com and click enroll now to become a member. Optimal health is our priority.