Vitamin D is not just a bone builder. Here is what you need to know about this nutritional powerhouse! A growing body of research is pointing to Vitamin D as the new American epidemic. Well over 50% of kids from a recent nationwide study were well under the desirable levels. That mirrors the problem in adults. In addition, those in higher altitudes, or elderly assisted care residents, have shown statistics of up to 80% with low level Vitamin D. Why is this? Vitamin D is normally not found in food, except supplemented dairy products, so our body’s rely on our sun-exposed skin to receive the necessary vitamin. We are all most sedentary, and many of us use sun-blocker, but all of this matters, because vitamin D seems to protect against a wide range of maladies, not just osteoporosis. Vitamin D deficiencies have been found in patients with several types of cancer. D also supports a healthy immune system. One study pointed out that people with higher levels of this important vitamin had fewer respiratory problems.
For infants and children, look for 400 international units daily. For adolescents and adults, aim for 1000 units daily. There is no harm, and you may avoid being deficient in this highly important vitamin.