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HEALTH CONNECTIONS
The D Vitamin
GOTTA HAVE IT
If you have not looked up the importance of vitamin D lately, it's time! Natural Health Magazine has a great article that spells out the new findings and latest research. It affects so much of our health that I am surprised we don't hear more about it. We know it supports good bone health. But did you know it aids in the prevention of many cancer such as breast, prostate, and colon cancer. It is significant in maintaining a good blood pressure, treatment of depression, arthritis, autoimmune disorders and obesity.
The new research states that about 60% of people are short of this vitamin and there is a test that can check for your level. It is the 25-hydroxy test, a simple blood tests. Current guidelines suggest 200 IUs daily for adult women. But experts now, suggest a minimum of 2,000 IUs per day (through supplements.) They even suggest as much as 5,000 units in the winter time to make up for little sun exposure.
We have been so frightened about the sun, that many of us don't get enough. This is a direct source of vitamin D. The study I have read suggests at least 15 to 20 minutes in the midday sun BEFORE applying sunscreen. That could be called a flipflop I suppose! (There are pros and cons on sunscreen in the natural health world!)
You can also get vitamin D through foods like egg yokes, mild and shiitake mushrooms. Check it out on the web and make sure you are getting your share. As we grow older, osteoporosis can be hazardous to our health. Many calcium supplements add vitamin D and that is good!
Take care of your health and it will take care of you.
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