The evidence has never been more compelling-our nation is vastly deficient in vitamin D. This deficiency is not only of national concern, however, it's now a global issue, affecting even those countries where sunshine is abundant.
Here is what you need to know.

Vitamin D in the body:
By definition, it turns out that vitamin D is not actually a vitamin--it is a hormone because it exerts direct exerts effects on DNA and, therefore, has the ability to modulate gene expression. We also now know that vitamin D exerts its effects in all major organs and systems including the digestive, reproductive, respiratory, cardiovascular, central nervous and musculoskeletal systems. The skin, kidney, thyroid, parathyroid and pancreatic cells also have receptors for vitamin D. As a result, vitamin D deficiency can play a role in the initiation and/or progression of several conditions including diabetes, osteoporosis, hormone disorders, obesity, infertility, multiple sclerosis, cancer, hypertension and heart failure, among others.

Vitamin D and cancer:
It is a well established fact that vitamin D boasts potent anti-cancer activity. A meta-analysis of several cancers and total serum levels of vitamin D demonstrated that virtually all cancers can be related to vitamin D deficiency--most commonly cancers of the prostate, breast, kidney, colon and ovaries. One study demonstrated that serum vitamin D levels (>50 ng/mmol) reduced the incidence of breast cancer by 30 percent. The surmounting evidence is clear: vitamin D is imperative in cancer prevention.

Vitamin D and infections - HINI:
Due to its broad-spectrum effects on infections (anti-fungal, anti-bacterial and anti-viral) vitamin D plays a significant role in immune health. A recent study on the incidence of HINI and vitamin D deficiency revealed that those infected with the virus were far more likely to be deficient in vitamin D than those who did not develop the symptoms. Perhaps instead of vaccinating against viruses we should identify and address vitamin D deficiency.

Vitamin D and longevity:
A study published by the Archives of Internal Medicine (2007) concluded that death from any cause (all-cause mortality) was reduced by seven percent with a daily dose of 528 IU of D3 (a highly conservative dosage). The latest statistics for the US indicate that if every American was given 50,000 IU D3 per week, rates of cancer and autoimmune disease could be reduced by up to 50 percent--a savings of $4 billion annually in US healthcare expenditure.

Vitamin D deficiency risk factors:
The people at highest risk of vitamin D deficiency are those who live at a latitude above 35 (that includes us), wear sunscreen or clothes covering skin (UVB is required to activate vitamin D), have darker skin pigmentation (which blocks UVB), have aging skin (skin is the site of vitamin D activation), and lack dietary intake of vitamin D.

Here's what you need to do:
The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition (2007) published a study demonstrating seasonal variations in 25-OH vitamin D (the active form of vitamin D in the body) in British adults age 45. It was found that the highest levels are during August and September and lowest levels are from December through May (Canadian studies are underway). With this in mind, adults and children should be tested for vitamin D level a minimum twice per year during these periods. If levels are low (insufficient or deficient), appropriate supplementation should be commenced immediately (under the guidance of a knowledgeable physician). An initial "loading dose" is required, then a re-test, followed by an appropriate maintenance dose.

With the risk of melanoma and aging effects of damaging UV rays, skipping sunscreen is not the best method to obtain vitamin D from the sun (besides you would need to be naked for 20 minutes daily at noontime). Supplementation with D3 is simple, effective and inexpensive. Current recommendations for vitamin D intake are outdated according to current scientific data. Depending on your age and current state of health, individual daily dosage requirements will vary. A simple blood test will reveal your vitamin D status.
What about vitamin D toxicity?

Data shows no toxicity exists at serum 25-OH D levels below 200ng/mL. These levels would be very difficult to achieve, but always consult with a physician and get tested before consuming more than 1000 IU D3 daily. With all the evidence, it's obvious that testing your vitamin D level is an integral part of preventative medicine for both acute and chronic disease.

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Sharon Gurm is a naturopathic doctor practicing at Port Moody Naturopathic Health & Wellness where serum vitamin D testing is available to patients.

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