by 
John P. Huntington, D.C.
Many of us are now aware of the importance of attaining optimal Vitamin D levels through careful sun use and/or oral supplementation.
In addition to its well-known benefit to bone health, Vitamin D has been dubbed the “antibiotic vitamin” as it boosts immune response. Many researchers feel low levels of this nutrient are causative for fall and winter flu.
Studies show that as our blood levels of D rise, other benefits are derived. These include reducing the prevalence of Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s and Multiple Sclerosis, as well as cutting our risk of internal cancers by one-half.
Recent reviews of this nutrient show that the form of D created by the sun on our skin is water soluble, and combines with sulfur to produce a substance needed by the heart. This is strong evidence that getting Vitamin D from the sun is best.
It is necessary to get your blood tested for Vitamin D if you supplement. Research shows adults need 5000 to 8000IU per day to gain levels that produce the effects listed above.
As Vitamin D is fat soluble, it can build to levels higher than desired. Sun-created D is self-limiting, with no chance ever of ‘over dose’.
More recent research shows that a type of Vitamin K (K2) is necessary for full functional benefits from D. There is no test for this vitamin, but a review of one’s diet can alert you to probable deficiency.
K2 can be gained from eating grass-fed beef and butter, organic eggs, some cheeses (Brie and Gouda, and easy for most, curd cheese), and certain fermented foods.
Again, we have evidence a natural, historically accurate lifestyle (eg., sunlight and foods man has consumed for ages) are our best bet for optimal health.
Dr. Huntington practices Chiropractic, Biomedical Acupuncture and Physiotherapy in Oracle, AZ. He enjoys gardening and has and organic-fed egg and broiler business with his son, Andrew. 520-896-9844 huntingtonchiro@hotmail.com.
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