Choose “D” to help fight disease

Article by Amy Bragagnini, MS, RD
Posted on July 14, 2008

Vitamin D has been in the spotlight lately for its potential disease fighting properties. Research has investigated its potential for preventing osteoporosis, fighting depression, preventing multiple sclerosis, and most recently, its potential to help prevent cancer. A research study presented at the 2008 Annual Meeting of the American Society of Clinical Oncology (review of J Clin Oncol. 26: 2008) looked at the relationship between levels of vitamin D in the body and outcomes in women with breast cancer. Over five hundred women with newly diagnosed breast cancer were followed for 12 years. Women that were deficient in vitamin D at the time of diagnosis were nearly two times as likely to have recurrence of cancer outside of the breast area. Several other studies have been completed and suggest that vitamin D may have potential in preventing ovarian and colon cancer. However, it is noted that there may be gaps in the scientific evidence found and further studies are needed.

Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin that is found in many foods and supplements, and can also be manufactured by the body with the help of the sun’s ultraviolet rays (which trigger vitamin D synthesis). Calcium absorption is enhanced by the presence of vitamin D in addition to maintenance of serum calcium levels. This is essential for proper bone mineralization and bone growth. The recommended daily intake for vitamin D is 200 mcg (19-50years), 400 mcg (50-70 years) and 600 mcg (71+ years).

Many health experts believe that a large number of people around the world do not get enough vitamin D in their diet. Daily intake of vitamin D may be low because, although fortified cereals, salmon, and milk do contain vitamin D, many people do not consume enough of these products for adequate intake. In addition, older people are often indoors more and do not get enough sunlight to trigger vitamin D synthesis. For this reason, experts feel that the recommended dietary allowance (RDA) for vitamin D be raised. Vitamin D supplementation may be indicated if one is not able to meet his daily requirements through food. Further research is being completed.