Vitamin D is a hormone that helps maintain normal blood levels of calcium and phosphorus. Vitamin D aids in the absorption of calcium from the stomach, helping to form and maintain strong bones. Recently, research also suggests vitamin D may provide protection from osteoporosis, hypertension (high blood pressure), cancer, and several autoimmune diseases.
With the advent of sunscreen use, and reduced intake of dietary sources of Vitamin D, Americans are been found to be very deficient in Vitamin D.
Low Vitamin D is an epidemic in African Americans with 30 % having a critically low level (<10ng/ml).
As part of a routine physical exam it is important that your physician does a screening blood test for Vitamin D. (25-OH-Vitamin D).
At the same time, it is recommended that unless you get 15 minutes of non-sunscreened exposure to sun a day to the arms and face, then supplements of Vitamin D is recommended.
A routine daily intake of 800-1000u of Vitamin D3 daily (over the counter) is recommended. More is not necessarily better. There is no indication to ever take more than 3000u a day.
If your Vitamin D level is >40ng/ml, then you will have a 50% lower risk of breast cancer. In addition, the risk of colorectal cancer, breast and prostate cancer is reduced 30-50% by taking 1000u /day.
Should you take Vitamin D? For almost everyone, the answer is Yes! It is recommended you discuss this with you primary care doctor or ask me about it on your next exam.
– Lesley J. Anderson, MD