VITAMIN D: Are you getting the right amount for winter?

...sufficient vitamin D3. However, this fat-soluble (requires fat for absorption) support for increased levels of wellness does a great deal more for us than help increase immunity to colds, flu and other respiratory infections, as vital as that protection is. (A recent review of 25 clinical trials in 14 countries reveals "the first definitive evidence" of a link between vitamin D and flu prevention, according to The BMJ, "...one of the most influential general medical  journals in the world.")

The cited study revealed strongest protection for those with lowest levels of the vitamin found in certain foods and synthesized by the body under certain circumstances, e.g., adequate subdermal cholesterol upon exposure to the sun's ultraviolet light. Besides lowered resistance to colds, flu, and viruses,

• Osteoporosis and osteomalacia (fractures)
• Cancers of many types, including breast, prostate, and colon
• Hypertension (high blood pressure)
• Heart disease
• Insulin resistance and metabolic syndrome
• Depression
• Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)
• Facial hair of women, and acne in males
• Migraine headaches
• Muscle aches and pain

While adequate levels of Vitamin D are very important, you can get too much of a good thing. With the more recently recommended intakes of 2,000 IU to even 10,000 IU, testing is important to ensure proper but not excessive dosage. Normalizing high vitamin D blood levels takes months to a year or more. Don't risk it. It is just as crucial to know if you are getting too much vitamin D.

Excess levels of Vitamin D can cause 

• Hypocalcaemia
• Hypercalciuria
• Hypertension
• Constipation
• Fatigue
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• And more.

We have never taken flu vaccinations, and have not been plagued with a cold or the flue in decades. Why should you be? Take charge of your health now by providing your body all that it needs including vitamin D, to enjoy and maintain optimum health! Only by testing can you know if you are getting the right amounts of this nutrient. As our good friend and colleague, Dr. Chris Meletis, says: "If you're not testing you're  guessing!"

While vitamin D3 is the subject of this article, it is important to know that it must be balanced with vitamins A retinoid  and K for effectiveness. An excellent resource to learn how to do this is found at the website of Kerri Knox, RN, Easy Immune System Health. http://www.easy-immune-health.com

Meanwhile, don't take vitamin D according to the directions on a bottle from a manufacturer that knows nothing about your individual requirement.  Always test with 25(OH)D first. (I like a value of approximately 70 ng/ml.) Then begin seriously and appropriately supporting your immune system and the many other needs your body has for this critical vitamin/hormone.

EACH OF THE 11+ CHAPTERS IN EATIN' AFTER EDEN IS A STAND-ALONE-BOOK IN ITSELF—ALL FOR THE PRICE OF ONE! WHEN THE CHAPTERS ARE READ TOGETHER THERE IS A SYNERGISTIC EFFECT THAT CAN EXPONENTIALLY ENHANCE YOUR ACHIEVEMENT OF AN ADVANCED LEVEL OF WELLNESS.