From the ArcaMax Publishing, Health & Fitness Newsletter:
http://www.arcamax.com/news/healthtips/s-378092-979069
ROCHESTER, Minn. (UPI) -- Recommendations vary on how much vitamin D
is enough but 800 to 1,000 international units is likely to benefit
most adults, a U.S. newsletter says.
The July issue of Mayo Clinic Women's HealthSource reports the body
produces vitamin D when exposed to the sun's ultraviolet rays but many
people need a supplement to reach recommended levels. Many
multivitamins contain vitamin D but the nutrient, also found in milk,
can be purchased alone or combined with calcium.
Vitamin D deficiency is increasingly recognized as an important cause
of muscle pain and weakness, the newsletter says.
Several studies have found vitamin D supplements may benefit muscle
strength and balance, helping older adults stay steadier on their feet
and observational research indicates low levels of vitamin D increase
the risk of some cancers.
In addition, some research indicates lower vitamin D levels are
associated with factors that affect cardiovascular health, including
coronary artery calcification and, possibly, congestive heart failure.
In one study, researchers found a 40 percent lower risk of multiple
sclerosis in women who supplemented their diet each day with at least
400 international units of vitamin D, the newsletter says.