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Notable
Nutrient:
Vitamin D, Not Just the Sunshine Vitamin
September 2006
Vitamin D is a key nutrient that research has found even more reasons
to ensure we are getting our daily dose.
The
Benefits of “D”
Bone Health: Vitamin D is needed to absorb calcium.
Cancer Protection: Research continues to suggest vitamin
D has significant potential to protect against colon, prostate, breast
and lung cancer.
Inflammation: Vitamin D helps suppress inflammation,
which may reduce the risk of arthritis, heart disease, high blood pressure
as well as cancer.
Hormone & Immune Function: This notable nutrient
influences hormones including insulin, serotonin and renin. This may help
deter diabetes, control blood pressure and ease depression. It may also
be linked to strengthening the immune system.
Desirable
“D” Dose
The current Daily Value for Vitamin D is 400-600 international units for
older adults with new research suggesting we increase our intake to 700-800
IU. This can be quite a challenge as there are very few food sources of
this notable nutrient. In fact, D is one vitamin where food is not the
best source. Sun is the best source hence, the Sunshine vitamin. Our bodies
can turn the rays of the sun into an active form of vitamin D.
| Boost
Your Daily D Intake |
Focus on the Few Vitamin D Rich Foods: •
Salmon 3 1/2 oz. Cooked 360 IU Include Vitamin D Fortified Foods: • Milk
1 cup– 8 oz. 100 IU Check the label
to be sure the food is fortified with Vitamin D. Fortified grains
usually contain 100 IU of D. |
Dietary Supplements
It is difficult to get adequate
Vitamin D from food alone. A supplement may be needed, especially if you
cannot get safe sun exposure. You may want to have your blood level of
D checked during the winter months. Ask your health care professional
about supplements. Vitamin D3 is the best absorbed.
NOURISHING NEWS ARCHIVES
©CNS/RQA/CA, INC
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Check with
your pharmacist if you are on medications, some may make you sensitive
to the sun.
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