The New Awareness for Higher Optimal Levels- Vitamin D
The current RDA for vitamin D is set at 200-600 IUs for 20 -75 year olds respectively. This level of supplementation seems inadequate in light of recent research, the increase in immune problems, and the shockingly high number of patients showing up deficient in blood tests today.
I strongly recommend a minimum of 1000-2000 IUs of vitamin D daily as a supplement. In that amount (and higher) it is absolutely safe. The best form is vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol).
Vitamin D Benefits:
SKELETAL SYSTEM
Plays a role in:
- calcium metabolism
- strength of bone and cartilage
teeth and gum health
Deficiency may lead to:
- osteoporosis, osteomalacia, osteoarthritis, muscle weakness and pains, periodontal disease
- secondary hyperparathyroidism
GLUCOSE METABOLISM
- role in insulin production
- improves glucose tolerance
CARDIOVASCULAR
May reduce:
- lipid peroxidation
- certain types of hypertension
CRP, fibrinogen, IL-6
IMMUNE SYSTEM
May reduce:
- inflammation, such as caused by neuronal injury
- autoimmune reactions: MS,Type I Diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn's, ulcerative colitis), lupus, thyroiditis
- reduces transplant rejection
- cancer risk & development
- cancers: colon, breast, prostate, Melanoma
May enhance:
- vaccines antibody response
- NK cell activity
MOOD DISORDERS
- may alleviate PMS and seasonal
ADRENAL SUPPORT
- supports adrenaline synthesis
- deficiency may cause fatigue and fibromyalgia like symptoms
- may counteract some detrimental effects of corticosteroids, such as osteoporosis and susceptibility to infections.