How much do you know about Vitamin D3 Health Benefits?

I just completed a consultation with my Rheumatologist for arthritis. Not surprisingly, a new medicine was prescribed. It came as a shock that it was a common vitamin and cheap. My blood test showed I was deficient in Vitamin D3 levels. So what, I could sit in the sun (without any sun blocking lotions though) for 15 minutes a day and have my body manufacture it safely. D3 can be produced in the skin by ultra-violet light energy from the sun. Not everybody is partial to the sun now days like I am. For them, a supplement may be preferable to skin cancer anxiety. Even though it will cost more.

Vitamin D3 is also called cholecalciferol. It is derived from one of the cholesterols in your blood. D3 is then converted by the liver and kidney to a hormone: calcitriol. This hormone is important to the control of calcium and phosphorus balance in the body and modulates bone and nerve-muscle action. People with low levels are known to run a higher risk of high blood pressure, heart attack, diabetes, obesity, stroke, and some cancers. Chronic low back pain is associated with low levels of D3. The intake of high doses of D3 is helpful in reducing colorectal cancer.

We are just now alert to the fact that D3 has other important roles in body health in addition to bone. Thus it is no surprise that back pain may be alleviated by D3. It is felt to be important in mental health and may ward off depression (also associated with low levels D3), increase brain power and slow the onset of Alzheimer’s disease.

Through an unknown mechanism, people with normal levels of D3 have a lower risk of certain cancers. In addition, studies have observed that higher levels of D3 inhibit the spread of cancer cells. D3 regulates T cells and thus has a major effect on our immunity. This may be how it stops cancer spread or tumors in the first place. D3 in high doses lessens the chance one will have diabetes or arthritis. D3 appears to have an effect on insulin action.

As we age, we are more likely to have lower levels as we do not produce D3 as well. You can get a level checked to see where you fall, and add a supplement daily. In the past, low oral doses were recommended. Currently, the levels suggested for daily intake are higher. One can eat fish and fish oil to get more D3 as well. The daily amount needed varies by age and increases accordingly. Some need massive doses of D3 to increase serum levels, so seeing a doctor is advised so you can measure your response and know just how your body reacts.