What qualifies me to speak about health? Well, I am a boxing coach certified by USA Boxing, the regulatory arm for amateur boxing in the United States. I am also an instructor of exercise classes for a local health club. As a born and raised New Englander, I live every year in a snowy and not-so-sunny winter from Christmas to Easter.
Here's the dirty little secret: Vitamin D3. My father used to soak up the sun as much as he could, and he had great skin up until his passing. He would be in the sun for hours at a time with great bronzed skin at the end of the day.
Today, research has shown us that in moderation the sun's rays are very beneficial. We should have at least 1,000 international units of vitamin D3 a day. In warmer weather, we may get that from the sun. In colder months, we need supplements. If you consume 2,000 to 4,000 units/day in the winter you would not be over the most recent recomended daily allowance.
You should have your current level checked by your physician to monitor your changes. A minimum level should be 1.25-dihydroxy vitamin D3.
The pubic has not appreciated the benefits yet, and I predict over the next two years you will be hearing much more about this. Just remember, you heard it hear first! According to the Mayo clinic, the latest research indicates that D3 may provide additional protection from cancer, high blood pressure, osteoporosis, and several autoimmune diseases.
This is the best insurance policy you can have to minimize doctor visits and have long term health benefits. I'll be writing more about this subject in the near future. Have a great winter, and please enjoy the crisp, clean, sun-filled air as much as you can.
Brian
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In the Wall Street Journal, on November 30, 2010, on the front page of the Personal Journal, is a column by Melinda Beck stating that the Institute of Medicine tripled the recommended amount of Vitamin D most Americans should take every day to 600 International units from 200 IU's set in 1997. You heard it from me first last year on my blog!
ReplyDeleteMelinda makes some fascinating observations: Sales of Vitamin D have gone up more than tenfold in the last 10 years,and many Americans are Vitamin D deficient due to staying indoors and using sunscreen when outdoors.
The panel also increased the maximum amount from 2,000 IU's/day to 4,000 IU's/day.
There is an ongoing recruitment for 20,000 men and women over age 60 for a nationwide clinical trial to study whether taking 2,000 IU's of Vitamin D or omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil, is any better than a placebo at lowering the risk of heart disease, cancer and other diseases. Upon the conclusion of the trial, I predict the great news about Vitamin D will become widespread and even mainstream information!
To your health,
Brian Scagliola
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