Dr. Mercola December 27 2008 166,873 views
A meta-analysis of 18 randomized controlled trials has found that supplemental vitamin D significantly reduces mortality from all causes. The analysis emphasizes the medical, ethical, and legal implications of promptly diagnosing and adequately treating vitamin D deficiency.
Not only are such deficiencies common, but vitamin D deficiency is implicated in most of the diseases of civilization. Vitamin D's final metabolic product targets more than 200 human genes in a wide variety of tissues. One of the most important genes vitamin D up-regulates is for cathelicidin, a naturally occurring broad-spectrum antibiotic.
Since vitamin D deficiency is both endemic and is associated with numerous diseases, it is one of the most important medical problems in modern society. Treatment of vitamin D deficiency in otherwise healthy patients must be individualized due to the numerous factors affecting vitamin D levels. Steps should be taken to keep patients with chronic diseases associated with vitamin D deficiency, especially internal cancers, in the higher normal range of vitamin D blood levels.
Read More About This Important Vitamin D Update Now
Before I start this comment, please let me strongly emphasize that if you have not yet viewed my one hour FREE lecture on Vitamin D, please schedule time to do so. Do it with your family as they all need this information.
One hour may seem like a long time, but I have studied this issue for hundreds of hours and personally interviewed the leading vitamin D experts in the world, and have condensed the most important points for you in this video.
Click here for the most important video I've ever made
I don’t know ANY single physical factor that could improve your health more than reviewing, understanding and finally applying this information. Especially important will be to get your blood levels tested so you can obtain all the thousands of well documented benefits.
In my view, one of the most impressive vitamin D researchers is Dr. Cannell. Although he isn’t a hard core scientist, like most of the other experts, and is a practicing physician, he has done an absolutely masterful job of reviewing and compiling the research and coming up with powerful observations and recommendations.
Without a doubt, he has been my most important mentor in this area and that is why I feel the article he published earlier this year is such an important one, and if you have any interest in this area I would strongly encourage you to carefully review his article. If you actually care to see what Dr. Cannell looks and sounds like here is a previous video I have posted on the site.
Benefits FAR More Than Your Bones
The number of diseases found to be impacted by your vitamin D levels is rising rapidly. As Dr. Cannell points out in his meta-analysis, vitamin D appears to reduce your risk of dying from virtually ANY disease.
And it’s no wonder, really, when you consider what vitamin D really is.
It’s not “just a vitamin,” but rather the only known substrate for a potent, pleiotropic (meaning it produces multiple effects), repair and maintenance seco-steroid hormone that serves multiple gene-regulatory functions in your body.
Just one example of an important gene that vitamin D up-regulates is your ability to fight infections. It produces over 200 anti microbial peptides, the most important of which is cathelicidin, a naturally occurring broad-spectrum antibiotic.
And, when you consider the fact that you only have 30,000 genes in your body, and vitamin D has been shown to influence more than 2,000 of them, the bigger picture of its true impact on your health can be easily understood. It may, in fact, have literally thousands of health benefits! So it’s likely we’re just beginning to scratch the surface of its true potential for reversing the modern disease state.
It’s absolutely tragic that dermatologists and sunscreen manufacturers have done such a thorough job of scaring people out of the sun – your optimal source for natural vitamin D. Dr. Cannell believes, and I agree, that this is one of the major influences that has contributed to the vitamin D epidemic we’re now facing, and also the autism increases we have seen.
Their widely dispersed message to avoid the sun as much as possible, combined with an overall cultural trend of spending more time indoors during both work and leisure time, has greatly contributed to the widespread vitamin D deficiency seen today -- which in turn is fueling an astonishingly diverse array of common chronic diseases, including:
Cancer
Hypertension
Heart disease
Autism
Obesity
Rheumatoid arthritis
Diabetes 1 and 2
Multiple Sclerosis
Crohn’s disease
Cold & Flu
Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Tuberculosis
Septicemia
Signs of aging
Dementia
Eczema & Psoriasis
Insomnia
Hearing loss
Muscle pain
Cavities
Periodontal disease
Osteoporosis
Macular degeneration
Reduced C-section risk
Pre eclampsia
Seizures
Infertility
Asthma
Cystic fibrosis
Migraines
Depression
Alzheimer’s disease
Schizophrenia
Researchers have calculated that simply increasing levels of vitamin D3 could prevent diseases that claim nearly 1 million lives throughout the world each year!
Where You Live Impacts Your Vitamin D Levels, and Your Disease RiskThe evidence is very clear that the farther away from the equator you live, the higher your risk of dying from cancer becomes, for example. In other words, those who live in higher latitudes have significantly higher cancer rates than those living in lower latitudes; directly correlating to the amount of available sunshine you have in your area.For example, according to Dr. William Grant -- one of the top vitamin D researchers in the world – the cancer rate in Iceland is 90 per 100,000 people per year. Those in the tropics, meanwhile, have rates of 25 per 100,000!And, he points out, the majority of cancer deaths in the United States are from vitamin-D-sensitive cancers. An estimated 150,000 cases of cancer could be prevented in the United States alone by increasing vitamin D levels throughout the population.
Are You Vitamin D Deficient, and if so, What Should You Do About It?I still firmly believe that the best way to raise your vitamin D level is not with supplements, but by exposing your bare skin to sunshine. However, getting sun exposure is not always practical or even feasible, depending on where you live.
During the winter, or during other times of the year when sun exposure is not a possibility for you, then supplementation with vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol) is an option that should be seriously considered.
I have often warned my readers to use extreme caution when taking oral vitamin D supplements in order to avoid overdosing. However, more and more research is showing that my fears of toxicity may have been overly cautious.
That said, the way to proceed is to get your vitamin D levels tested before you begin, and then at regular intervals so that you can tell when you reach the optimal level, because the amount of vitamin D required (whether from sun exposure or supplementation) to reach this level is different for everyone.
It’s thought that 85 percent of the American public is deficient in vitamin D and over 95 percent of African American or deeply pigmented individuals. And, in the United States, the late winter average vitamin D is only about 15-18 ng/ml, which is considered a VERY SERIOUS deficiency state.
You can find out what your levels are by asking your doctor for a blood test called a 25(OH)D, also called 25-hydroxyvitamin D. (Please note, there are two types of vitamin D tests, and this one is the one you want.) There are also two primary labs in the U.S. and you ONLY want to use Lab Corp, NOT Quest, to perform this test. The OPTIMAL value of vitamin D that you’re looking for has recently been raised to 50-65 ng/ml, with even higher recommended levels required for more serious disease prevention.Find Out More About What Vitamin D Can Do for Your Health
This is one case where keeping on top of the rapid discoveries can be truly challenging.
I’ve already amended my recommendations for optimal vitamin D levels, the use of cod liver oil for vitamin D supplementation, and guidance on what labs to use to ensure accurate test results, and I’m sure there will be further updates and revisions as we move forward. So make sure you continue to read future updates.
The links below under Related Articles are some of my best starting points for finding additional sources, to continue your own exploration of this essential nutrient.
I totally agree, melanomas have increased dramatically in Australia since they started the "slip, Slop Slap" campaign, not only are people terrified of the sun on their skin, they are using highly carcinogenic sunscreen lotions to "Protect" themselves,
I am 81yrs old and do not use any sunscreens, or sunglasses, I do avoid the strong Queensland sun in the middle of the day, I like to get up early and work in my garden or go for a walk and look at the rising sun for several minutes to increase the retinol in my retina. there is heaps more I could say but that's enough for my fist comment
healthy1, I subscribe to what you say. Considering that plant and animal life develop chemicals on their surface or skins to protect them from disease or other outside invaders, why then do we wash all this protection from our bodies and anoint ourslves in poisons? Shold we have the audacity to consider ourselves intelligent?
The Australian sun is way too harsh for me!
An acquaintance did go to Tonga where she tanned for the first and last time.
hello healthy1...will you share more of your wisdom?
I refer you to Health and Light by John Ott. John spent hours outside without glasses, sunglasses or sun screen. He used the shade of the trees to block the strong rays and lived a healthy life. I have followed his advise and understand the benefits of the sun's healing rays. Many of the sunscreens are not beneficial to the skin. If you need to be out try a long sleeve shirt and a hat. So much common sense has gone to way of fear advertising. Be Well
Hi healthy1! I too live in Australia, in Perth and the sun is scorching over here so I too avoid the sun in the middle of the day and you are absolutely correct, there's so much of the "slip, slop, slap" here and people are avoiding the sun at all costs and sadly not realising that the cost could be huge to them.
You come across as a very fit and young 81 yo, obviously doing all the right things, congrats!
GOD BLESS YOU! YOU ARE VERY WISE INDEED! I TOTALLY AGREE WITH YOU. I AM A SUNWORSHIPER! NO SUNSCREENS AND NO SUNGLASSES! HOORAY FOR YOU. HUGS, SAND
I wonder, what is the rate of melanoma among the Aborigines. They are out in the sun a lot from what I understand. So even though they are dark skinned, shouldn't their melanoma rates far exceed the African American population in the US?
I've got a hunch that it's just the reverse.
Personally, I think cancer is easy to cure. So even though we could have an explosion of cancer, it might not be as bad as presently feared...if...we start curing ourselves like I did...
itsnotjustforsex-1.blogspot.com/.../2-peppers-curing-prostate-cancer.html
The best to you.
Kelley Eidem
Together we can cure cancer - one person at a time!
Living in the United Kingdom since 2000 - but born in the tropics, where sun is taken for granted - a decrease in a general feeling of wellbeing has been somewhat of a problem during the last 8 years. I have been reading Dr. Mercola's remarks and followed his advice, regarding hypertension, Vitamin D defficiency and a couple of other health matters. Life appears to be a lot brighter now-a-days. So what can I say, but "Thanks, Dr. M!"...also on behalf of my "tropical" friends in the United Kingdom.
Any day now....Big Pharma will release an "important study" showing the dangers of natural Vitamin D......
They NEVER allow any natural substance to take away from their profits.... just you wait.
nomorenurse, I completely agree that big pharma will through a wrench in the vit D thing. On the other hand I am increasingly becoming hesitant to jump on the latest miracle "natural herb/vitamin" bandwagon. I am by all means not disputing the benefits of any vit D or any other herb/vitamin but I can't help wondering why nature does not provide us with vit D during winter months if we are supposed to have it. I agree that for most people it is hard to get sunshine during the summer due to long office hours, so I can see why one must supplement, but during the winter? Just wondering.
In certain cities during the winter especially coastal cities like Seattle and Vancouver, the skies are mostly overcast. You will probably see clear midday skies less than once a week. Even if the sky was clear, the maximum UV index is about 1 which may not be enough if your skin is dark.
How do the Inuits or first nations usually get sufficient amounts vitamin D?
No, no, no. They will release an important study showing the dangers of natural vitamin D, at the same moment that they come out with their lab-designed version, costing only $1000 a month, mostly covered by insurance, of course. Of course, health insurance will go up more to cover this.
You are absolutely right. There is also someone behind Big Pharma - someone who's controlling our population.
Brazil,
We actually can build up quite a bit of Vit. D "reserve" by spending time in sunshine during warmer months. Unfortunately, with the prevalence of people having to spend most of their time indoors for those months, that reserve is never built up for most people, and many are deficient already going into winter.
Brazil123 - I think that Mother Nature did not envision the majority of us living year round in the latitudes which, either, do not provide enough sunshine, or are too cold for us to stay outside. Could she have forseen central heating and thermal underwear? There are far northern tribes who do not seem to have problems obtaining enough vitamin D. Could there be something in their diet that provides it?
Although Dr. Mercola now recommends against cod liver oil, I am still taking it in the form of soft gels, and I will continue to do so. I can't change what supplements I take every time someone else changes their mind, especially as I have taken cod liver oil for about 12 or 13 years now with no ill effects. I'm in great shape for my age, and my very fit and active mother who is almost 86 has been taking cod liver oil for years and years and years and she is in great shape too. I make up my own mind about what is good for me and what is not, and I'm not about toss my CLO gel caps in the garbage!!!!!
Dannigirl, could your current state of health and that of your mother's be in spite of taking CLO or because of it and how can you be so certain? Just being the devil's advocate.
Dannigirl, i too have been using Cod Liver Oil for years. on the recommendation of Dr. M years back I use Carlsen's brand. This new recommendation has me concerned, although since beginning the cod liver oil I have not been sick at all with colds, flu's etc. as I had been before i used it. I am 61 years of age, am now concerned about Osteoporosis which Dr M said could occur with using cod liver oil. I would get tested for levels, but its so expensive to get blood tests and I don't have insurance. I, like you, feel I should continue to take the cod liver oil.
That is just it! How do we know what is actually good for us with all this controversy? One day this is the miracle drug/vit/herb, the next day it is detrimental to the health. Who is actually doing realiable studies? I too have been using the Carlson's cod liver oil for years per my naturopath recomendation. When my son first went on solid foods, I used to pour one tablespoon of Carlson's in his aplle sauce and he would eat it - he never had an ear-infection. I will continue to use it myself and continue to give it to my now 8 year old son.
Just a small warning note:
Actually, vitamin D does not in itself promote healthy bone. Vitamin D controls the levels of calcium in the blood. If there is not enough calcium in the diet, then it will be drawn from the bone. High levels of vitamin D (from the diet or from sunlight) will actually demineralize bone if sufficient calcium is not present.
Vitamin D will also enhance the uptake of toxic metals like lead, cadmium, aluminum and strontium if calcium, magnesium and phosphorus are not present in adequate amounts.
Vitamin D supplementation should never be suggested unless calcium intake is sufficient or supplemented at the same time.
Not just calcium supplementation, but Calcium/Magnesium as our body needs magnesium to produce/preserve needed amounts of calcium in our body? I think good whole food multivitamin supplements can pretty much ensure effective amounts and proportions-however when I don't have a multivitamin I would take magnesium before taking a calcium supplement. I haven't encountered a good company that offers calcium alone without magnesium.
I really wish Dr. Mercola would comment on the subject of Calcium (along with Vit. D). Maybe he has and I missed it? How important is it to take calcium along with Vit. D3 and...how much? Are Dolomite tablets a good source of Calcium/Magnesium? Would appreciate information...
INKY -type Calcium AND Bone Health in this site's search engine and you will find lots of information
Heather I would dearly love to see the backing for this. I have seen questionable claims like this from a few Big Pharma types and their mouth piece Dr.'s who should know better. Vitamin D3 is crucial first and foremost. If you are eating anything close to a healthy diet, you will get plenty of calcium so it's not the calcium that's the issue. Magnesium is a major player as it helps to balance the circulating calcium and keeps it targeted to your bones and not your arteries. Remember the gunk that clogs your arteries is 50 - 65%, ta da, CALCIUM! And is caused primarily by a lack of Vitamin D3 to keep it strengthening your bones. One of the new "miracle drugs" being tested for artheriosclerosis is a calcium blocker. It will not keep the calcium in your bones, but will actually increase your risk of osteoporosis.
Magnesium, especially a good multiple formula of the various types is a natural calcium blocker and keeps the calcium going to your bones, teeth and hair and not your arteries. Calcium is not necessary in the treatment of osteoporosis and has been proven in too many studies to list here. Vitamin D3, magnesium and to a lesser degree, copper and boron play minor but vital roles when used in the proper amounts.
Recommending increased amounts of calcium with D3 supplementation is dangerous! Several new studies released over the last 4 years have proven beyond doubt increased amounts of calcium intake in women who take it believing they are preventing osteoporosis are actually doing no such thing. Rather they are increasing their risk of heart disease by 23 - 37% depending on circulating Vitamin D3 levels. Magnesium Oxide, used in most supplements and multi-vitamins is all but useless. Very cheap but useless. Different types of magnesium are critical to various parts of the Krebs cycle for energy, muscle elasticity and tone as well as calcium regulation. Dollars drive Calcium supplements not science. Beware...
Think First...THANK YOU so much for the information you provided. I was hoping for a response to Heather's comment and so happy I clicked back in to check!
THINK FIRST...please recommend a magnesium supplement. Is there one you prefer? Thank you so much!
There are many experts who would disagree with you on this. I just finished a book review on the Calcium Lie by Dr. Thompson which disputes virtually all of your comments. The review should be published next month.
Think First
I stated adequate OR supplemented.
Does jumping to conclusions burn calories?
:D
Just a comment on magnesium. I use a very nice one from source naturals, magnesium malate. I battle chronic fatigue, and the malate form is good for that, but it's also an absorbeable magnesium.
Paulabob...Thanks for the info. I was hoping someone would respond...sure is a lot of mixed info. out there! Anyhow, I bought a bottle of the Source Naturals..Magnesium Malate and will give it a try. I have achy muscles and joints and feel worn often (and don't sleep well). Hope you check back to read this. Thankfully...Debi
Think First,
I am doing my best to have a good diet.
Today's food intake shows percetages of calories as 20% protein, 32% carbohydrates and 48% from fats.
However, although I am intaking many different foods, including dairy, my calcium is only 49% of RDI...and this is with one calcium magnesium complex tablet.
I do not think it wise to simply assume levels of nutrients are adequate.
I believed mine were fine until I used a program to provide the breakdown of nutrients in my food and drink intake for today.
from Wiki:
"In the absence of vitamin K or with drugs (particularly blood thinners) that interfere with Vitamin K metabolism, Vitamin D can promote soft tissue calcification"