Trumm Drug

The Sun, Vitamin D, and You

Is Vitamin D the new wonder pill? Along with its proven role in maintaining bone health, Vitamin D has been implicated in regulating the immune system, protecting against several forms of cancer, heart disease, and diabetes type II. Although there will never be a cure all, wonder pill, adequate Vitamin D levels seem to be very beneficial. Since few foods naturally contain vitamin D, exposure to the sun is the major source. Our skin is very effective at producing vitamin D upon exposure to the sun. Although too much sun exposure is recognized as being harmful, 5-10 minutes exposure 2-3 times a week is more than sufficient for it’s protective effects. For those of us up north where the rays are limited throughout the winter months, or those whose skin never sees the sun without a generous coat of sunscreen, supplementation is usually necessary. A healthy balance between sun exposure and supplementation is the key.

The amount of Vitamin D supplementation needed is different for everyone and should be discussed between you and your physician. The current recommended daily allowance is 400IU per day but several studies have suggested that to see the full protective effects 800-1000 IU per day or more may be needed. Excessive intake may result in nausea, poor appetite, constipation, weakness and high calcium. The highest intake generally regarded as safe is less than 2000 IU per day.