Did you know that Vitamin D is one of the most essential nutrients for our bodies, yet an estimated 50% of American’s are deficient in it?
Thousands of studies have been done on the health effects of vitamin D, and research shows it is involved in the biology of all cells and tissues in your body. Most fascinating to me are the dozens of studies showing that raising your vitamin D levels can significantly reduce your risk of cancer.
Most recently, a randomized clinical trial by researchers at Creighton University, found vitamin D and calcium supplementation lowered participants’ overall cancer risk by 30 percent. Another study discovered that when you increase your serum vitamin D levels to 40 ng/mL or higher, your risk for cancer diminishes by 67 percent. They found that most cancers occurred in people with a vitamin D blood level between 10 and 40 ng/mL. The optimal level for cancer protection was identified as being between 40 and 60 ng/mL.
A primary consideration when it comes to vitamin D is to get your level checked, ideally twice a year, in the middle of the summer and winter, when your level is at its highest and lowest. What you’re aiming for is a level between 40 and 60 ng/mL year-round.
It is a safe bet that most of you reading this right now haven’t been getting enough vitamin D, even if you regularly take supplements.
It has been proven that natural sun exposure is by far the best way to boost your vitamin D levels. Unfortunately, we all know that too much sun can lead to pre-mature aging, skin damage and even disease. So how do you get the most out of the sun while still protecting yourself?
Even the low SPF sunscreens can prevent your body from turning the Ultraviolet B rays in Vitamin D. In order to get your daily dose of D, you need 15-20 minutes of unprotected sun exposure.That’s right, don’t lather on that sunscreen just yet. If you have sensitive skin and are afraid you will burn easily you can decrease your sun exposure to just 10-15 minutes.
Getting your daily dose of D will keep you happy and healthy, but don’t forget to put on your sunscreen after those first 20 minutes have passed. To help prevent sunburn, make sure to reapply every two-hours and use a brand you trust.