How a Vitamin D3 Deficiency is Putting You at Risk

About one-third of elderly males and one-half of elderly females are deficient in vitamin D3. Deficiencies in vitamin D3 have been linked to several of our most common and deadly diseases such as cancer, diabetes, and multiple sclerosis.

As we age, our ability to synthesize vitamin D3 in our skin, when exposed to sunlight diminishes.  To make matters worse, we have more difficulty absorbing supplemental vitamin D3 from our dietary intake.

All of these factors favor supplementing with vitamin D3 and making sure we get adequate, regular exposure to the sun, especially as we get older.

The next time you have any blood work done, ask your doctor to check your vitamin D3 levels.  This is not done as part of a standard yearly physical, but it should be. If you suffer from or have a family history of osteoporosis, heart disease, multiple sclerosis, diabetes or any of the other conditions mentioned above, you might consider getting a vitamin D3 blood test done ASAP, especially if you never had one before.

I recommend for most adults, depending on their vitamin D3 blood test results,  to supplement with vitamin D3, between 2,000 - 10,000  IU per day. This is more important if they spend most of their time indoors or have a history of low sunlight exposure. Taking vitamin K2 is important to get the most out of your vitamin D3. About 150 Mcg of vitamin K2 as Menaquinone MK7 is a good amount.  Vitamin K2 can be contraindicated if you are on certain medication, such as blood thinners.  If you are taking any medications, make sure to check with your physician and pharmacist to make sure you can safely take vitamin K2.

Try to get out in the sunshine for 20 to 30 minutes at least 3 times a week. If you are in the sun and use a sunscreen, you will diminish your ability to produce vitamin D3.  Remember that too much of a good thing can be dangerous, so don't overexpose yourself to sunlight, which could cause a sunburn and increase your chances of getting skin cancer.        

For More Information:

http://www.drdavidwilliams.com/how-a-vitamin-d-deficiency-is-putting-you-at-risk#axzz2i4uaKpkW?key=2...