Aging Without Vitamin D
As we age Vitamin D becomes a valuable commodity. Our skin becomes more sensitive and the damage from the sun begins to show in age spots and decreased production of Vitamin D. Skin cancer might be a threat and so sunscreen becomes a must when we venture outside. Unfortunately, outdoor adventures may begin to dwindle over time creating an even greater deficit in Vitamin D production. Studies have shown a minimum of 58% of people above 55 years old have Vitamin D deficiency. Vitamin D deficiency has routinely been found when you experience at least two or more of the following medical issues – osteoporosis, heart disease, hypertension, diabetes, kidney problems, certain cancers, depression, memory loss, an autoimmune disease, chronic fatigue, chronic pain. This sounds like many of the issues faced during the aging process. Although, Vitamin D cannot treat the medical condition, if you have these medical conditions it may mean that you should have your Vitamin D level checked.
Good food sources of Vitamin D are: wild caught sockeye salmon, sardines, shrimp, eggs and 2% milk. With heart disease consuming enough 2% milk, eggs and shrimp to meet your basic requirement of 1000-2000 IU/day is not possible because of the effects on cholesterol levels. Wild caught sockeye salmon has and average of 600 IU per 4oz serving and Cod has 65 IU per 4oz serving. It is very difficult to obtain the necessary amount of Vitamin D through food sources.
Repletion of Vitamin D is based on the initial level in your body. It is important to balance the amount taken in a supplemental dose as extra Vitamin D is stored in the fat cells. The most beneficial Vitamin D on the market right now is D3. Vitamin D3 is the active version therefore your body can use it without any work.