Vitamin D

"We have well established the wonderful benefits of Vitamin D.  Not only do high levels of Vitamin D protect us from certain cancers, but there are other exciting benefits of having a very high Vitamin D level.  Autoimmune diseases, like lupus, thyroid disease, bowel disorders, occur less frequently in those with plenty of Vitamin D.  There is also less depression, improved mood and better blood pressure.  It is also thought that Vitamin D improves the function of the pancreas, by making insulin more sensitive.   When insulin works better, our metabolism works better and we live longer. 

Unfortunately, most of us (>70% in the United States), are deficient in Vitamin D.  

Discovered in 1929, Vitamin D is the big bang for the buck vitamin.  The standard over the counter Vitamin D supplements come in “international units or IU’s.”  The most common dosage you will see is 1000-2000 IU.  There is a common liquid preparation that is usually 4000 IU’s. 

I like Vitamin D levels to be between 60-80 for the best results.  Most of the studies showing the benefits of Vitamin D are seen in individuals that achieve these levels of Vitamin D in their blood stream.  If you are deficient in Vitamin D, it may take you 6-9 months to adequately replace Vitamin D and get within this range.  I would recommend caution for those of you with kidney stones to avoid shooting for high levels of Vitamin D since most kidney stones come from calcium and Vitamin D may increase calcium levels." - Dr. Alan Hopkins