With our recent move I had to see a new doctor for my annual breast cancer check- up. Unbeknownst to me he checked my vitamin D levels. Imagine my surprise when I got a call informing me that I was deficient in vitamin D. For 8 weeks I'm taking a high dose vitamin D gelcap--50,000 IU weekly (this requires an Rx). And I was told I could also take, additionally, 1000 IU daily to speed up the process.
I'd been wondering if I might be low in D, since I've heard so much about it in the news lately. Perhaps my slow weight loss and easy gain is connected to a deficiency of this vitamin. Since I've started therapy I do feel like I have more energy and less cramping in my legs. And, into week 4 now, I'm not hungry all the time, and I haven't been craving carbs.
If you suspect you are low, get it checked out. Because vitamin D is fat soluble it is possible to overdose, and once your levels are too high, you cannot bring them down--at least that is what I've read--and the consequences could be serious.
Finally, the best source for D comes from the sun and the process that takes place in your body as a result of exposure. Experts say to spend 10-20 minutes a day in the sun--with arms, legs, and face exposed, minus sunscreen, preferably between 10 am -2 pm.
Should you decide to take a supplement, there is D2 and D3. Supposedly, D3 is better utilized by your body, so look for it. And concerns about skin cancer and sun exposure? Not to fear--you won't be in the sun long enough to burn, and the D you get will protect you from several other kinds of cancer--at least that is what I've read. Keep in mind I am not a doctor and I am not dispensing medical advice here--just sharing my experience.
From all the reports I'm hearing and reading, vitamin D deficiency is widespread and it is important to address it. I'm inclined to believe the reports, because honestly, I don't see anyone making a great deal of money from promoting Vitamin D. You can buy it over the counter, without a prescription, and it's cheap to boot. Who knows, maybe this medical finding will make a difference in the health of the masses.