The vitamin buzz these days is all about the D Vitamin. In some people’s minds, it’s the new miracle drug. Now this isn’t coming from the manufacturers of vitamins, but from physicians and nutritionists.
What has been found is that many Americans do not get enough Vitamin D. There are several reasons for this. To understand the reasons, you should know that Vitamin D is produced naturally as our skin is exposed to the sun. Well, in the past people were outside more than they are today and got plenty of sun. Today many of us work all day inside out of the sun. Plus, when we do go out, we usually put on sunscreen since we have been warned about getting skin cancer from too much sun. Then those who live further north has even a greater problem since they don’t get as much sunshine as those further south.
Then there are specific reasons that certain people may have less of the D vitamin. You might be surprised to hear that for breastfed infants, their mother’s milk does not have sufficient D vitamin. Too much body fat can also restrict the effectiveness of the vitamin. Darker skinned people due to the pigment melanin restricts the ability of the sun for the production of the vitamin. Finally, for those age fifty and up, the skin isn’t as good at producing it.
It is not a good thing that many Americans have low vitamin D levels. Why? Because the vitamin is associated with things such as preventing MS, preventing rheumatoid arthritis, helping the brain to function well, regulating one’s immune system and even helping to prevent cancer.
But that’s not all. It is also associated with good heart health. It’s not just the statin drugs are getting high praise for reducing risks of heart disease.
Studies indicate that people with low vitamin D levels had 2 times the chance of a stroke or heart attack than those with higher levels. High blood pressure was a factor as well but certainly, vitamin D was found to be part of the equation.
So how will you get your D? I’ve some recommend trying to get more sunshine on the skin to get it naturally. Some sun with sunscreen shouldn’t hurt they say. In addition to that, doctors are suggested that people with deficiencies take a Vitamin D supplement. My own doctor did a blood test on me and found that I was low on the vitamin and actually gave me a vitamin D prescription.
Every person is different. This article reflects some of my experiences but you should see your own doctor for details on what you should do regarding vitamin D and your heart health.