D-fense!

Three cheers for Vitamin D! Research has found that breast cancer cells contain Vitamin D receptors, which can potentially slow down the growth of the cancer. A new study has found the promising link between Vitamin D deficiency and breast cancer. The Canadian study, which will be released at the American Society of Clinical Oncology's upcoming conference, suggests there is a correlation between women with low levels of Vitamin D at the time of their diagnosis and the likelihood of the cancer spreading and even death when compared to women who were not Vitamin D deficient. These women were initially diagnosed between 1989 and 1995 and were followed through to 2006. Although the medical community is in agreement that this study is a step in the right direction, the results should be approached with cautious optimism, since previous studies have shown conflicting results. 

Best known as the vitamin that aids in calcium absorption and bone health, Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin that is commonly called the "sunshine" vitamin since our bodies produce it with exposure to ultra-violet light. All you need is about 10-15 minutes of sunlight on your skin, two to three times a week prior to sunscreen use. Unfortunately, it has been found that sunscreen with an SPF 8 or higher reduces Vitamin D synthesis dramatically. That's the catch-22! Without sunscreen, there is a growing risk of skin cancer. Not to worry, Vitamin D is found naturally in a limited number of foods such as salmon, mackerel, sardines, cod liver oil and egg yolks. Additionally, foods like milk, soymilk, orange juice, some soft tub margarines, oatmeal and cereal are fortified with vitamin D. And of course if you take a daily multi-vitamin, you're covered. Multi-vitamin supplements most commonly contain 400 IU (10 mcg) and many calcium supplements also provide vitamin D. 

As with all vitamins there is a recommended dose. The Adequate Intake (AI) For Vitamin D is as follows*: 

• Men and women between the ages of 19-50: 200 IU (5 mcg) 
• Men and women between 51-70: 400 IU (10 mcg)
• Men and women 71 and older 600 IU (15 mcg) 

Those at risk for Vitamin D deficiency include populations living in areas with limited sun exposure, dark skinned people, the elderly, and people suffering from Cystic Fibrosis, Chron's disease, and obesity. And of course too much of something is not always a good thing. Symptoms of vitamin D toxicity, (usually from over-supplementation) include nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, and can raise Calcium blood levels, which in itself causes a host of other problems. 

Vitamin D is essential for our health and it's important to make sure you get the recommended AI. But before you go and OD on "D" be aware that there is still no evidence to prove its use as a means of cancer prevention at this time. It's clear that further studies need to be conducted. A simple blood test will show if you are Vitamin D deficient. If you are concerned, have your doctor check at your next visit. 

* Source: http://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/vitamind.asp#h2