Vitamin D Cancer Protection

The relation ship between vitamin D cancer is inverse - a deficiency of vitamin d has such a strong relationship with cancer rates that main-line cancer fighting organizations are recommending a vitamin D supplement.

Vitamin D - Heart Attack

On January 8, 2007 a study by Harvard Medical School published in the medical journal Circulation concludes that people with low vitamin D levels and higher than normal blood pressure can boost heart attack risk more than more recognized conditions like diabetes and high cholesterol. Vitamin D Cancer Ocean Scene

The body creates it's own vitamin D through exposure to sunlight. However, vitamin D deficiency is common in northern climates - particularly in winter. Most Canadians are thought to have low vitamin D levels, particularly when the winter sun is not intense enough create vitamin D.

While researchers caution that it is "premature" to order vitamin D tests based on this study the Canadian Cancer Society recommends 1,000 international units (IU) of vitamin D each day as an aid to cancer prevention.

Vitamin D & Bone Growth

The Harvard study concluded that vitamin D interacts with receptors in the circulation system and effects the way blood vessels develop and respond to stress. Low vitamin D levels, on the other hand, are linked to circulatory and heart abnormalities. Vitamin D deficient subject had a 62% higher than normal risk of a "cardiovascular event" after adjusting for high cholesterol and blood pressure. Vitamin D Cancer on the Dock

Summary: Vitamin D, Heart Health and Cancer

Based on these recent studies, including the Canadian Cancer review, it's recommended that northern populations consider a daily supplement of vitamin D in the amount of 1,000 IU (based on consultation with a physician).

Consider protecting yourself with this simple and inexpensive supplement! Particularly for masters runners living in northern latitudes vitamin D may literally be a lifesaver.

That's a wrap-up on vitamin D and cancer! And don't forget...