Higher Vitamin D Blood Levels Help Prevent Colon Cancer

Just in case you needed moreproof that low blood levels of vitamin D represent a significant healthconcern, researchers publishingin the European Journal of ClinicalNutrition demonstrate that small increases in the sunshine vitamin can addprecious years to your life. For nearly a decade scientific evidence has beenmounting to show that the vast majorities of adults (and many children) aregrossly deficient in circulating blood levels of vitamin D.

Further proof is documented inthe PLoS One journal to show theprecise cellular mechanism that helps vitamin D dramatically lower the risk ofcolon cancer. The bottom line is simple: check your vitamin D blood saturationwith an inexpensive test and make the necessary adjustments to live a healthierand longer life.

Doubling Average Vitamin D Levels Could Cut World Death Rate by TwentyPercent

Using epidemiologic studies, Dr.W.B. Grant of the Sunlight, Nutrition and Health Research Center in SanFrancisco found that doubling the serum blood concentration of vitamin D couldincrease average life expectancy by two years. Dr. Grant and his teamidentified the major diseases that responded to increased levels of vitaminD. They then compared mortality rates to six identified regions around thecountry, and contrasted serum blood levels of the sunshine vitamin with diseaseoccurrence.

After compiling all the data, theresearchers found that conditions and diseases responsive to vitamin D thataccount for over half of the world's mortality include cancer, cardiovasculardisease, diabetes, tuberculosis, respiratory diseases and infections. It wasdetermined that doubling the circulating level of vitamin D would lower themortality rates of diseases that are sensitive to vitamin D by approximately 20percent. Dr. Grant concluded“several ways to raise serum vitamin Dinclude food fortification, supplementation and increased ultraviolet Bexposure.”

Vitamin D Directly Correlated With Decreased Colon Cancer Risk

Researchers have known for sometime that low vitamin D levels are associated with a significant increase incolon cancer cases, but have not understood the specific mechanism responsible.Now, scientists have discovered how a lack of vitamin D promotes DNA damage andcolon cancer risk. Specifically, low vitamin D status instigates thedevelopment and progression of this devastating form of cancer.

Researchers have focused on aprotein in intestinal epithelial cells called beta-catechin that normally helpsepithelial cells bond together with other cells to form a protective barrierbetween the contents in your gut and the physical structure of your digestivetract. They found that when vitaminD is lacking, DNA synthesis is disrupted and beta-catechin builds up incells, dramatically increasing the risk of colon cancer initiation.

There should be no doubtremaining that one of the most critical foundations to vibrant health ismaintaining proper vitamin D blood saturation levels. Prevention is worth apound of cure, so have your family physician run the simple and inexpensive 25(OH)D blood test (alternatively, mail-in home testing is now a viable option),and be certain your level runs between 50 and 70 ng/mL to add years to yourlife and dramatically lower colon cancer and chronic disease risk.

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Posted in: Cancer,Vitamin D

Resveratrol and Vitamin D Team Together to Increase Metabolism and Prevent Obesity

Resveratrol has been on thenutritional radar of researchers because of its proven ability to mimic some ofthe life-extending characteristics provided by calorie restriction as seen inanimals and humans alike. Scientists publishing in the journalMolecular Nutrition and Food Researchdraw a solid link between resveratrol, vitamin D and other phytonutrients asagents that may lend a helping hand in the life-threatening battle againstoverweight and obesity.

Researchers document the newlydiscovered effect of the nature-derived nutrient on lipid metabolism, anddemonstrate that supplementation along with the sunshine vitamin and quercetinsynergistically decreases the formation of new fat cells in the body. Thisfinding is significant because it may provide a critical metabolic aid tochildren and adults that suffer the health-damaging effects of obesity everyday. Further evidence exists to hail the trio in the genesis of osteoblasts inbone marrow that may offer a new therapy for osteoporosis that affects themobility of millions of aging adults.

Resveratrol and Vitamin D Combine to Regulate Genes that Control Body Weight

Scientists studying metabolismin aging adults have found that stem cells differentiate in favor of adipocytes(fat cells) and to the exclusion of osteoblasts (cells necessary for theformation of new bone). This means that as we age, our body has evolved tostore fat as an aid to our survival. As metabolism slows, we continue to eatthe same number of calories that helps to fill the newly acquired adipocytes. Whilebuilding and maintaining bone structure may sound like a good idea to us, it isnot pre-programmed into our genetic matrix.

Development of new fat cells hasevolved as a protective mechanism, although the vast majority of older adultsreally don`t need this genetic advantage. Researchers found that supplementedresveratrol, vitaminD and quercetin work together to regulate our genes and down regulate theproduction of fat cells while boosting the production of osteoblasts. Naturallyit is important to practice caloric restriction as we age. Many aging adultswill be able to utilize this phytonutrient trio to prevent excess weight gainand the debilitating effects of osteoporosis.

Natural Nutrients Help Weight Management Efforts Along with HealthyDiet

In addition to the welldocumented anti-cancer and longevity benefits previously ascribed tosupplemented resveratrol, health-minded individuals will want to include resveratroland other phytonutrients as an aid in the fight against abdominal fataccumulation. Researchers concluded“It should be noted that combiningresveratrol with other phytochemicals may provide an extraordinary potentialfor preventing obesity and osteoporosis. These phytochemical synergies may makepossible novel safe, potent and efficacious therapies.” Be sure to include resveratrol (25to 50 mg per day) in your dietary arsenal to assist weight loss, boostmetabolism and prevent bone loss.

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Posted in: Resveratrol,Vitamin D,Weight Management

Vitamin D Blood Level Critical to Prevent Most Chronic Diseases

Prominent research studiescontinue to extol the virtues of maintaining proper levels of criticalnutrients such as vitamin D throughout life to prevent most diseases thatplaque western cultures. Publishingin the European Journal of ClinicalNutrition scientists found that by simply raising the low end of thevitamin D blood saturation range (from 30 ng/mL to 44 ng/mL), all-causemortality could be reduced by 7.6% to 17.3% for most women.

This supports the extensive bodyof work published by Dr. Bruce Ames that explains low nutritional status throughlife results in the development of diseases including heart disease, cancer,diabetes and dementia. A high quality multi-vitamin taken daily can provide abroad range of protection against a host of chronic illnesses.

Lower All-Cause Mortality Up to 20% for Pennies a Day

If you found out that you couldlower your risk of dying by as much as 20% simply by increasing vitaminD intake, would you be willing to make the change? For most people thiswould mean taking an additional 1500 IU of the sunshine vitamin at a daily costof $.03. While some people can benefit directly from sun exposure, aging adults(over 50), those in Northern climates and dark-skinned individuals will need totake an oil based supplement and monitor blood levels to ensure optimalprotection.

You won`t hear about results thatshow that increasing vitamin D intake or other essential nutrients cansignificantly lower your risk for developing chronic disease. The scientistsperforming this study on European women found “Increasing serum 25(OH)D levels is the mostcost-effective way to reduce global mortality rates, as the cost of vitamin Dis very low and there are few adverse effects from oral intake and/or frequentmoderate UVB irradiance with sufficient body surface area exposed.”

Triage Theory Explains Long Term Nutritional Deficiency Leads to Early Death

Dr. Bruce Ames has been studyingthe long term effect of poor nutrition on health for more than 30 years andproposed the triage theory in 2006. The theory explains how long-termdeficiency in nutrients such as vitamin D and K increase genetic mutations overtime and cause diseases associated with aging like cancer, heart disease, anddementia.

Dr. Ames explains that his research demonstrates thatnutritional deficiencies over the course of decades (and even short termdeficits in the case of vitamin D) cause the body to promote metabolicprocesses that support short term survival and reproduction. Long termmaintenance goals that effect repair and regeneration of genetic material includingchromosomes and DNA are allowed to go unattended when adequate nutrients arelacking in cellular stores.

Very few health-mindedindividuals would argue against the virtue of a well-balanced and unrefineddiet centered on a colorful array of vegetables, fruits, nuts, seeds andlegumes. Most children and adults will want to ensure optimal intake ofvitamins, minerals, fats and amino acids through a sensible approach to dietand taking a high quality whole food based multi-vitamin each day.

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Posted in: Diet and Nutrition,Lifestyle,Vitamin D

Vitamin D Alters Brain Proteins to Protect Against Alzheimer’s Disease

Advanced age and the build-up of amyloid beta protein clumps on brain structures are the clinical manifestation leading to the devastating form of dementia known as Alzheimer`s disease. Breaking research published in the journal Fluids and Barriers of the CNS provides crucial evidence that vitamin D influences transporter proteins that help clear the naturally occurring proteins from the brain.

Vitamin D has been found to profoundly alter the development and progression of many diseases including cancer, heart disease and diabetes. We can now add Alzheimer`s disease to the list. Obtaining vitamin D from natural sunlight or supplementing with the prohormone should be considered mandatory for all health-minded people wishing to lower chronic disease risk.

Vitamin D Prevents Amyloid Plaque Buildup in the Brain

Researchers constructing this study used mice genetically predisposed to develop dementia, and the animals were injected with vitamin D. It was determined that amyloid beta accumulation was selectively inhibited and special transporter proteins cleared the damaging amyloid before it could accumulate. The brain has developed an intricate array of special transporter proteins known as LRP-1 and P-gp that have been shown to usher amyloid protein across the blood-brain barrier before causing damage.

The lead research author, Professor Tetsuya Terasaki from Tohoku University in Japan commented “"Vitamin D appears to increase transport of amyloid beta across the blood brain barrier (BBB) by regulating protein expression, via the vitamin D receptor, and also by regulating cell signaling via the MEK pathway. These results lead the way towards new therapeutic targets in the search for prevention of Alzheimer`s disease."

Blood Testing is Essential to Normalize Vitamin D Levels

The research team believes that vitamin D helps to transport amyloid beta protein structures across the delicate blood-brain barrier so the clusters can be released into the cerebral spinal fluid for eventual disposal. The function of this mechanism is known to decline in aging humans and animals, allowing buildup of the sticky protein clusters around the neuronal synapses. Scientists have observed that vitamin D levels are typically low in aging adults when diagnosed with Alzheimer`s disease, and can now make the connection between blood saturation levels and the disease.

The study authors do not provide a vitamin D reference level that produced the results in this study. Many prior studies have demonstrated that the optimal blood level of the prohormone is between 50 ng/ml and 80 ng/ml to dramatically lower the risk from many cancer lines. Most health conscious adults will need to supplement with an oil-based vitamin D supplement to achieve this goal and attain protection from this deadly form of dementia.

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Posted in: Alzheimer's Disease,Vitamin D

Vitamin D and Acai Berry Help Prevent Arterial Plaque and Heart Disease Risk

Critical research into the importance of vitamin D on vascular health was carried out at the Emory University School of Medicine and reported to the American College of Cardiology. Researchers provided evidence that increasing levels of vitamin D circulating in the blood is essential to improved cardiovascular health and dramatically lowered risk of heart disease and heart attack.

The study included 554 adults with an average age of 47 years. Participants had a typical vitamin D level of 32 ng/ml, with 14% testing as deficient (less than 20 ng/ml) and 33% were insufficient (less than 30 ng/ml). While standard medical practice considers 30 ng/ml to be an ideal minimum level, most natural health experts advise attaining a 25(OH)D reading between 50 and 70 ng/ml for proper cell saturation of the prohormone.

Vitamin D Improves Arterial Elasticity to Prevent Atherosclerosis

Researchers monitored the ability of the participants` blood vessels to relax by inflating and removing a blood pressure cuff from their arms. Blood was then allowed to flow back into the arm and the degree of elasticity measured by means of an ultrasound. They found that arterial elasticity was directly related to the blood level measured for vitamin D saturation. Those individuals with the lowest or deficient readings experienced a much higher degree of hardening.

Participants with the highest readings experienced significantly improved vascular elasticity and lower blood pressure readings. The study author, Dr. Al Mheid noted “There is already a lot known about how vitamin D could be acting here”. Regarding mechanisms responsible for the cardiovascular health improvements Dr. Mheid concluded, “It could be strengthening endothelial cells and the muscles surrounding the blood vessels. It could also be reducing the level of angiotensin, a hormone that drives increased blood pressure, or regulating inflammation.”

Acai Berry Juice Protects Against Arterial Hardening

Research results published in the journal Atherosclerosis provide evidence that acai juice provides powerful anti-inflammatory benefits that protect the delicate coronary arteries from hardening. Researchers found that acai juice protects against the development of atherosclerosis by inhibiting pro-inflammatory compounds known as cytokines that promote arterial thickening and the beginning stage of heart disease.

The juice was shown to lower levels of lipid peroxidation, a process that causes normal LDL cholesterol to combine with oxygen and incorporate with other materials to become arterial plaque. This study found that drinking acai juice altered the expression of 17 genes that contribute to LDL cholesterol oxidation. Health-minded individuals will want maintain proper vitamin D blood levels and drink 4 to 8-ounces of unsweetened acai juice each day (or an equivalent standardized extract) to dramatically lower the health risks associated with arterial hardening.

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Posted in: Acai Berry,Heart Disease,Vitamin D

Targeting Higher Vitamin D Levels to Prevent Cancer and Chronic Disease

The correlation between serum blood levels of circulating vitamin D and lower risk from many cancer lines has been well documented over the past two decades. Scientists have revealed the mechanism used by this powerful pro-hormone to guide healthy DNA replication and cellular division to dramatically reduce the incidence of potentially deadly mutations.

Publishing in the journal Anticancer Research, researchers at the University of California, San Diego School of Medicine and Creighton University School of Medicine have found that much higher levels of the sunshine vitamin are necessary to prevent or markedly reduce the incidence of breast cancer and other chronic conditions.

Most Adults Do Not Take Enough Vitamin D to Lower Disease Risk

The study included nearly 5,000 men and women with an average age of 51 over a period of 5 years. Participants answered dietary questionnaires every six months to ascertain vitamin D levels, vitamin D intake, and health status. Researchers found that the vast majority of adults need to supplement with 4,000 to 8,000 IU per day of vitamin D3 (taken with food or as an oil-based gel cap) to maintain sufficient levels of vitamin D metabolites to lower disease risk by 50%.

The study demonstrated that the risk of developing a number of chronic diseases including breast cancer, colon cancer, multiple sclerosis, and type 1 diabetes was cut in half by raising the blood saturation level above 50 ng/ml. One of the lead authors, Dr. Cedric Garland noted “I was surprised to find that the intakes required to maintain vitamin D status for disease prevention were so high – much higher than the minimal intake of vitamin D of 400 IU/day that was needed to defeat rickets in the 20th century.”

Supplement Vitamin D to Achieve Proper Blood Saturation Levels

Recommended Daily Allowances for vitamin D were recently bumped up to 600 IU per day for most adults. This study is the first to clearly demonstrate that this small increase is still placing the health of millions of Americans in jeopardy. A report from the National Academy of Sciences Institute of Medicine indicates that 4,000 IU is a safe dosage for everyday use by those nine years of age and older. Many factors including age, race and body weight determine the correct amount of vitamin D needed to raise blood levels, and blood testing is the only reliable method to determine the correct supplemental dose.

Most researchers believe that supplementing to establish a blood saturation level between 40 and 60 ng/ml is needed to provide maximum protection from many cancer lines, diabetes and heart disease. This study found that less than 10% of the population has blood levels that fall within this range and supplementation is essential for optimal health and longevity.

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Posted in: Breast Cancer,Cancer,Vitamin D

Vitamin D Shown to Dramatically Cut Cancer Risk

(Article first published as Don’t Ignore Vitamin D to Dramatically Slash Cancer Risk on Technorati.)

Evidence in support of the health-promoting properties of vitamin D continues to mount as new research shows a direct link between blood levels of the super-nutrient and the risk of developing colon cancer. The National Cancer Institute provides statistics showing that colon cancer is the second most deadly form of the disease, taking the lives of more than 50,000 each year in the US.

The International Journal of Cancer has published a meta-analysis from nine comprehensive studies showing dramatic reductions in colon cancer risk with higher blood concentrations of the sunshine vitamin.

Cancer Risk Reduction is Linked to Vitamin D Blood Saturation

The pooled data from the studies reviewed showed that for every 10 nanograms per milliliter increase in vitamin D blood level saturation, there was a corresponding decrease in colon cancer incidence of 15%. Breast cancer risk was lowered by 11% with the same increase in vitamin D. Researchers made note that they were testing the biologically active form of vitamin D known as cholecalciferol (vitamin D3) and not the less active precursor (vitamin D2 or ergocalciferol). Vitamin D was tested using the more accurate 25(OH)D blood test.

The role of vitamin D in cancer prevention has been theorized since the early 1940`s when scientists discovered that cancer rates were much lower in countries closest to the equator. At the time they believed that sunshine played an important role in `cancer immunity`. Over time the link between vitamin D production in the skin and sun exposure has become increasingly apparent and extensive research demonstrates how this crucial nutrient can protect DNA integrity and prevent cancer-causing mutations.

Ensure Proper Vitamin D Levels With a Simple Blood Test

Research studies over the past decade have provided conclusive evidence that vitamin D blood levels in the 50 to 80 ng/ml range are associated with a significantly reduced cancer risk from all lines of the disease. The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition published the results of a study showing that vitamin D (1100 IU per day) combined with calcium (1400 to 1500 mg per day) `substantially reduces all-cancer risk in postmenopausal women`. 

Scientists found that the two nutrients work synergistically to lower cancer risk in aging healthy women. The authors conducting the study concluded, `these findings highlight the importance of promoting optimum vitamin D status and underscore the value of achieving and maintaining a high serum 25(OH)D concentration.` This study demonstrates the importance of maintaining multi-nutritional status to prevent chronic illness.

Vitamin D is only one of a very small number of natural nutrients that are known to prevent and treat many types of potentially life-threatening conditions. Up until the age of 40 sun exposure provides the best source of vitamin D, but conversion of the nutrient declines as we age and supplementation using an oil-based gelcap is necessary to maximize blood saturation and lower cancer risk.

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Posted in: Breast Cancer,Cancer,Vitamin D

Vitamin D and Sun Combine to Halt Breast Cancer

(Article first published as Vitamin D Shows Promise in the Fight Against Breast Cancer on Technorati.)

Both vitamin D and exposure to sunshine are known to provide protection against many forms of potentially deadly cancer lines. The combination of both supplemental vitamin D and moderate sunlight provide a synergistic effect that is shown to dramatically lower the risk of developing breast cancer.

Many health-minded individuals attempt to balance the intake of the vitamin from supplements and sunbathing when feasible. Research shows that a combination of both methods can bolster the critical circulating blood levels of vitamin D and provide significant protection against this devastating form of cancer.

Supplement with Vitamin D and Spend Time in the Sun

The link between vitamin D and cancer has been theorized for more than 70 years when researchers noticed that cancer incidence was considerably lower in latitudes closest to the equator. Since that time much has been learned and evidence conclusively confirms that individuals with the highest levels of circulating vitamin D can lower the risk of developing certain forms of cancer by as much as 78%.

Sun exposure and supplementation with the natural human form of vitamin D (D3) are essential to boost vitamin D levels, as dietary sources are scarce and unreliable. The results of a study published in the journal Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers & Prevention followed more than 67,000 postmenopausal women for a decade and examined degree of exposure to the sun and intake of vitamin D. Researchers found significant protection against breast cancer for those women with the most sun exposure and highest intake of vitamin D.

Study Finds Risk Lowered by 45% with Combined Vitamin D Sources

Information from this study underscores the importance of establishing a high circulating level of vitamin D to lower risk from cancer. The researchers noted that there was no significant risk reduction from taking vitamin D or sun exposure independently. The combination of moderate sun exposure and low dose vitamin D supplementation was shown to lower breast cancer risk by 32%. Women with the most sun exposure and highest level of dietary intake of vitamin D experienced a 45% reduction in breast cancer incidence.

Revised Recommended Daily Allowance Does Not Provide Cancer Protection

The referenced study found no cancer protection from taking a vitamin D supplement that provides the recommended dose of 400 IU. Additionally, cancer incidence was not affected by sun exposure alone. Combining both sources provided a degree of risk reduction that was dose dependent. Both sources were necessary to provide sufficient circulating vitamin D to demonstrate protection against breast cancer.

The revised RDA suggests that 600 IU of vitamin D will protect against disease. Unfortunately this will have no effect on cancer risk and millions will succumb to this preventable affliction. As this study confirmed, sun exposure is not a reliable source of vitamin D as our skin loses the ability to efficiently produce the vitamin as we age. Most adults will require at least 5,000 IU of vitamin D each day to establish a circulating blood level of 50 - 70 ng/ml. At this level all cells become fully saturated with vitamin D and cancer risk plummets.

Everybody metabolizes vitamin D differently and will require more or less of the nutrient based on age, weight, activity and genotype. Begin your journey to vibrant health with a simple blood test to determine your level and supplement with a gel-based form of D3 as necessary. You will dramatically lower your risk from a multitude of diseases and lengthen your natural lifespan.

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Posted in: Breast Cancer,Supplements,Vitamin D

Fight Cold and Flu, Avoid Sugar and Include Vitamin C and Vitamin D

(Article first published as Fight Cold and Flu with Natural Diet and Super Nutrients on Technorati.)

When given the opportunity our body has the amazing capacity to thwart many diseases and illnesses including the common cold and influenza. When we provide our immune system with the necessary tools to fight bacteria and viruses, vibrant health will always be the natural result. 

The typical processed food diet is void of the nutrients we require to fuel our immune system and we become a magnet for a host of circulating pathogens that cause suffering for millions each year. Proper diet and targeted natural immune nutrients will help you and your family to prevent cold and flu by boosting your innate immune response.

Eat Natural Foods, Avoid Sugar to Boost Immunity

Diet is the single most important lifestyle process that is within your control to help your immune system. Simply put, sugar suppresses our immune system by inhibiting the ability of white blood cells to engulf bacterial and viral invaders.

The results of a study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition (AJCN) demonstrates that the amount of sugar in two sweetened beverages lowers immune response by 50% for up to five hours after drinking or eating. A diet filled with complex carbohydrates has no detrimental effect on immunity and the high nutritional content of fresh vegetables, nuts and seeds provide the building blocks required to mount a healthy attack as needed.

Vitamin D Activates Killer T Cells

Health conscious individuals who ensure proper blood levels of vitamin D appear to have the ultimate defense against the cold and flu. The journal Nature Immunology provides details of the synergy between the sunshine vitamin and our adaptive immune killer T cells. Vitamin D is shown to provide the activation key that stimulates T cells into action when invaders are detected.

Virtually every cell in our body has a vitamin D receptor that is only filled when sufficient amounts are circulating in the blood. A deficiency in this essential compound leaves the cellular receptor open and available for viral hijacking. A separate AJCN study shows that vitamin D is far superior to vaccines at preventing the flu. Maintain your vitamin D blood levels between 50 and 70 ng/ml for optimal protection.

Vitamin C Prepares Immune Cells for Action

Vitamin C has been shown to increase the number of infection-fighting white blood cells and stimulates the production of interferon. Interferon provides a protective coating to the surface of cells that prevents penetration by viruses. Research published in the Journal of Immunology explains that up to 5 grams of vitamin C are needed daily to activate the production of interferon for general health and up to 1 gram every hour should be used when fighting a cold or the flu.

The importance of a strong immune response cannot be underestimated. Elimination of sugar and processed carbohydrates from your diet should be the first step in boosting your front line response. Adding natural nutrients including vitamins C and D have proven effective in providing top notch protection against the common cold and flu virus.

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Posted in: Diet and Nutrition,Immune Health,Vitamin D

Vitamin D Slashes Cancer and Heart Disease Risk in Half

Health conscious individuals have been closely following Vitamin D research for the past decade as volumes of scientific evidence prove this prohormone has been selected through our evolution to provide critical protection against many inflammatory and immune mediated diseases.

New information now reveals a clear picture of how this amazing nutrient works at the cellular level while prompting the expression of more than 3000 individual genes to protect us against many lethal forms of cancer and heart disease as well. You can dramatically reduce your risk of illness and extend your healthy lifespan by making sure your blood is saturated at an optimal level with Vitamin D.

Vitamin D Influences our Genes, Cuts Cancer Risk in Half

Research has determined that virtually every cell in the human body has evolved with a Vitamin D receptor (VDR) which needs to be filled with circulating Vitamin D from our blood. Insufficient levels of the nutrient means that cellular receptors will be left open to be hijacked by a rogue virus. This can pave the way for infection by the influenza virus or eventually lead to a greatly increased risk of cancer.

According to a study published in Genome Research, Vitamin D regulates genes which provide protection against many forms of cancer and autoimmune diseases. Vitamin D specifically binds with these genes to provide a protective shield which dramatically reduces our risk of disease. Vitamin D also acts as a master blueprint for cellular replication, guiding the DNA strands with instructions to accurately divide during mitosis and provides critical guidance to prevent cellular proliferation, a hallmark of cancer metastasis.

Vitamin D Lowers Heart Disease Risk by 47%

The results of a study presented to the American College of Cardiology show that correcting deficient Vitamin D blood levels can reduce the risks associated with coronary artery disease. Study participants were given Vitamin D supplements to raise their blood level well beyond the current minimum reference point and were followed for a period of a year to assess their risk for cardiovascular disease. While this study didn`t provide an explanation for the 47% risk reduction, other research has shown that Vitamin D can lower systemic inflammation throughout the body which promotes healthy arteries and lowers blood pressure.

Ensure You Aren`t Vitamin D Deficient

As much as 85% of the adult population is Vitamin D deficient, needlessly placing themselves at considerable risk for a variety of diseases ranging from flu and the common cold to heart disease and cancer. Sun exposure and multi vitamins are inconsistent sources of Vitamin D as we lose the ability to convert the nutrient to its active form on our skin as we age.

The only way to accurately determine if you need to supplement is by having your blood tested. Be sure to request a 25(OH)D blood test which yields the most accurate results. Optimal levels are between 50 and 70 ng/mL. If you test below this level you`ll need to supplement with an oil-based gelcap form of Vitamin D. Most people find that 1000 IU is needed to raise the blood level by 10 ng/mL.

Deficient levels of Vitamin D are responsible for millions of needless deaths and much suffering each year. Extensive research has shown exactly how this mega nutrient works on the cellular level to provide lowered risk from many lethal conditions including cancer and heart disease. Those interested in lowering disease risk will want to have a simple blood test and supplement accordingly to reap a multitude of health benefits.

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Posted in: Cancer,Heart Disease,Supplements,Vitamin D

Vitamin D Essential to Weight Loss Efforts

(Article first published as Vitamin D Shown to Slash Belly Fat, Assist Natural Weight Loss on Technorati.)

Excess body weight and abdominal obesity represent an astounding threat to the health of millions of men, women and children worldwide. Over the past century obesity has been relatively rare, affecting less than 1% of the population at the turn of the 20^th century. Today the number of obese individuals is 34% and continues to grow steadily.

We have become grossly deficient in vitamin D as we shun sun exposure and rely on inept supplemental recommendations. Researchers have discovered that this super nutrient is required to metabolize stored fat and that more than 60% of people tested are severely deficient. You can help your body burn abdominal fat and lose weight naturally by regulating your vitamin D intake.

Study Shows Vitamin D Becomes Locked in Fat Cells

The results of a study published in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism reveals that 59% of young women tested had too little circulating vitamin D and nearly one-quarter were grossly deficient in the active form of the vitamin. Vitamin D insufficiency has been shown to be a factor in the accumulation of excess body fat as the fat-soluble vitamin becomes locked away in adipocytes (fat cells). In the absence of sufficient vitamin D the body increases the number and size of newly formed fat cells that promote and accelerate abdominal obesity.

Low Vitamin D Linked to Fat Accumulation and Cancer

Vitamin D is actually a prohormone that becomes activated in the kidneys to become a potent hormone that controls of the growth of cells. In the absence of sufficient circulating levels of the active form, both adipocytes and cancer cells are allowed to multiply relatively unchecked. Sufficient levels of vitamin D signal fat cells to shrink. This makes weight loss much easier when calories are restricted and also keeps cancer cell growth in check.

Checking Vitamin D Levels to Assist Weight Loss

The only way to know if you are vitamin D deficient is with a simple blood test. Be sure to have the prohormone blood level checked with a 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) test. Most experts agree that the proper level to ensure complete cell saturation is between 50 and 70 ng/ml.

The referenced study found that every 1 ng/ml increase in blood level translated to an additional half-pound of lost body weight. This same level has also been shown to lower the risk from many cancer lines up to 78%. Most people will need to supplement with 2,000 to 10,000 IU daily to reach the proper saturation point. People with dark skin, higher body weight and advancing age will require higher doses of vitamin D.

Research has shown that vitamin D ranks among the most essential nutrients to promote human health. Our ancestors evolved in a sun drenched environment with nearly full body exposure for most of the day. We made large amounts of the vitamin in our skin and reaped amazing health benefits. Today we use sun screen and avoid the sun. The small amounts of vitamin D we may have become locked away in fat cells and perpetuate obesity. Ensure you have enough of this critical nutrient circulating in your blood to promote vibrant health and natural weight loss.

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Posted in: Obesity,Vitamin D,weight loss

Weight Loss Diet Tips to Improve Heart Health

(Article first published as Top Weight Loss Diet Tips to Improve Heart Health on Technorati.)

The incidence of obesity continues unabated at epidemic levels as people suffer from a wide array of degenerative diseases including heart disease which kills more people than any other affliction. The US Department of Agriculture released data showing that Americans consumed 331 more calories a day in 2006 compared to thirty years ago. Those additional calories translate to an additional 2,317 added calories each week which packs on roughly 34 more pounds of deadly body fat each year.

Excess Body Weight Directly Leads to Heart Disease

The risk of heart disease rises in direct proportion to weight gain. The results of a study in the European Heart Journal conclude that even moderate increases in weight are strongly associated with increased risk of coronary death and heart attack. In fact, a 5% increase in body weight is enough to tip the scales toward cardiovascular disease in large part due to the metabolic response of chemical messengers released by stored fat and lipid dysfunction.

The body has an amazing capacity to heal itself and reverse the negative effects of a lifetime of poor dietary habits, as any amount of weight loss will slowly bring about disease reversal and lower the risk of suffering a cardiac event. You can incorporate the following healthy tips into your lifestyle to assist weight loss and dramatically lower your risk of heart disease.

Tip 1: Increase Dietary Calcium to Boost Weight Loss Efforts

The results of a study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition shows that those individuals with the highest intake of calcium from dairy products experienced an average 12 pound weight loss over a 2 year period. Study participants consumed 600 mg of calcium from dairy sources which is equivalent to a 12 ounce glass of milk.

It’s important to note that the calcium did not come from supplements which are difficult for the body to absorb. Be sure to supplement with Vitamin K which helps usher calcium out of the blood so it doesn’t become deadly heart clogging plaque.

Tip 2: Supplement with Vitamin D to Reduce Inflammation

This study also found that as weight increased, levels of Vitamin D circulating in the blood were reduced. This is because Vitamin D becomes stored in body fat, and excess fat means that more Vitamin D is locked away and unavailable to perform critical anti-inflammatory and immune system functions. 

Vitamin D is a catalyst in the weight loss process as it reduces inflammation caused by excess fat and helps to inhibit the release of chemical messengers such as cortisol which keep you from losing weight. Vitamin D deficiency is implicated in the dramatic rise in coronary artery disease, as it has been shown to lower blood pressure and stabilize plaque so it doesn’t rupture.

Tip 3: Stabilize Blood Sugar Through Natural Diet

Blood sugar spikes caused by a diet high in processed carbohydrates leads to obesity and heart disease. Wild changes in blood sugar after every meal cause metabolic imbalance and high levels of triglycerides in the blood which the body must convert to fat for storage. You can get off this rollercoaster and begin to see quick weight loss results by slowly cutting refined carbs from your diet.

If your food comes in a cardboard box, can or other man made container, it shouldn’t be part of your diet. Eat plenty of vegetables, nuts, seeds and lean proteins in their natural form to keep blood sugar under control. You can reverse plaque which has been slowly developing in your arteries over the course of decades, as you watch those excess pounds disappear.

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Posted in: Heart Disease,Supplements,Vitamin D,weight loss

Vitamin D Cuts Cancer Risk by 50%

(Article first published as Reduce Risk of Cancer and Diabetes by 50% with Vitamin D on Technorati.)

Who ever thought that taking an inexpensive nutritional supplement could dramatically lower your risk of developing cancer, diabetes, heart disease and even Alzheimer’s disease? Vitamin D has been shown to directly influence more than 3000 genes by regulating their ability to prevent and control many deadly diseases. Extensive scientific evidence finds that checking your Vitamin D blood level and supplementing as necessary is one of the best things you can do to ensure your health and longevity.

Vitamin D Works at the Genetic Level

Every cell in our body has evolved with a receptor for Vitamin D. If insufficient amounts of the vitamin (actually a prohormone) are in circulation, these receptors aren’t filled entirely and viruses can take command of the cell, injecting their viral payload.

According to a study published in Genome Research, optimizing Vitamin D levels can reduce the risk from many forms of cancer and diabetes by more than 50% and lower the incidence of heart disease by 43%. That’s quite an accomplishment for a single nutrient.

Vitamin D Fights the Flu and Common Cold

People who supplement with Vitamin D are amazed that they never seem to develop a cold or come down with the flu, even when everyone around them is sneezing and coughing. Vitamin D functions in two ways to prevent these common ailments, first by blocking the pathway that pathogens use to infect the cells, and further by regulating genes which promote the release of a natural antibiotic produced by the body. A proper Vitamin D level boosts our natural immunity, reduces systemic inflammation and is critical to warding off a host of deadly diseases.

Vitamin D and the Fight against Cancer

Vitamin D researchers indicate that 30% of cancer death could be averted each year by ensuring optimal blood levels. Vitamin D works against cancer by inhibiting each of the four stages necessary for cancer development and growth.

Many cancers are caused by a genetic mutation that occurs during cellular replication. Vitamin D provides the blueprint required by each cell to accurately divide, and when the vitamin isn’t present at a sufficient level, the cell uses a less efficient method which can lead to DNA damage.

Make Sure You Aren’t Vitamin D Deficient

By some estimates, 85% of the population is Vitamin D deficient. Millions are placing themselves at risk for disease and early death by ignoring this vital nutrient. The problem is that sun exposure may not provide you with optimal levels as you age, and multi vitamins provide too little and use a form which isn’t well absorbed by our cells.

Don’t risk your health thinking your multi vitamin and sun exposure are enough to protect you. The only way to know for sure is to have a simple blood test performed (25 (OH)D) by your doctor or independent lab, and ensure your level is above 50 ng/ml. This indicates that all your cells are properly saturated and you have maximum protection. If you need to supplement, choose an oil-based Vitamin D gelcap which is much better absorbed than a dry powder capsule.

Volumes of scientific evidence demonstrate that Vitamin D is essential to your health and can increase lifespan. This critical prohormone has been shown to the lower risk of many inflammatory and immune based diseases, including cancer by up to 50%. Don’t take a chance with your health – get your blood tested and supplement accordingly to reap the many life extending health benefits of Vitamin D.

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Posted in: Cancer,Heart Disease,Supplements,Vitamin D

Vitmain D Lowers Cancer Risk, Assists Weight Loss

(Article first published as Vitamin D Important in Weight Loss, Cancer Risk Reduction on Technorati.)

The importance of Vitamin D in the battle to lose weight and reduce the risk from many forms of cancer has been largely misunderstood since its discovery in 1922. Researchers have been uncovering the many significant health benefits of this miracle hormone since decoding the human genome, leading to critical discoveries about the interaction of Vitamin D with our DNA and genetic structure.

Low Vitamin D Levels Linked to Cancer and Autoimmune Disorders

The fact that every cell in the human body carriers a receptor for Vitamin D provides a good indicator of just how critical this pro-hormone is to good health and life itself. Vitamin D circulates in the blood, filling the needs of all cells until a saturation level is achieved, and is then stored in fat for future use.

According to the journal Genome Research, when the genetic receptors on each cell are inadequately filled, the incidence of cancer, diabetes, and autoimmune disease such as multiple sclerosis, Chron’s disease and rheumatoid arthritis rise dramatically. It appears that when Vitamin D is locked properly in its cellular receptor, it acts as a molecular instruction manual for healthy cellular function and replication.

Vitamin D Promotes Healthy Weight Loss

Vitamin D is an important nutrient for those trying to lose weight. Information provided to The Endocrine Society confirms that people following a weight loss program supplemented with Vitamin D dropped one-half pound more per week for every 1 ng/mL increase in Vitamin D in the blood, as compared to a control group who didn’t supplement.

Vitamin D helps to lower blood sugar and reverse the effects of insulin resistance, which may explain the weight loss results with Vitamin D supplementation. Additionally, the hormone is known to reduce levels of systemic inflammation which promotes healthy weight reduction. While Vitamin D is not the only key to successful weight loss, it is a powerful tool which should be used to assist your progress, while reaping the many additional health benefits.

Most People are Vitamin D Deficient
Proper Vitamin D levels can only be determined by a simple blood test. Optimal levels run between 50 and 80 ng/mL, yet the vast majority of people test around 25, and some are dangerously low below 20. When the circulating level is low, cellular receptors are not filled and risk of disease jumps dramatically.

Younger individuals make about 20,000 units of Vitamin D from 15 minutes of sun exposure which is sufficient to raise blood levels into the normal range. After age 35, our body becomes inefficient making Vitamin D from sun exposure and supplementing is required. Most people will need to start by supplementing between 4000 and 6000 units per day. Have your blood tested after 90 days to determine if you need more or less.

Vitamin D has been on the health radar of medical researchers for the past decade. Studies regularly confirm that the hormone is essential to our well being, reducing our risk of certain cancers by as much as 78%. Important information also indicates that Vitamin D can assist those individuals trying to lose weight by stabilizing metabolism and lowering inflammation. The benefits of Vitamin D supplementation are incontrovertible, and will help you to lead a longer life with vibrant health.

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Posted in: Blood Sugar,Cancer,Supplements,Vitamin D,weight loss

Vitamin D is Critical for Immune Health

(Article first published as Vitamin D is Vital to Health on Technorati.)

Evidence continues to mount validating the critical nature of Vitamin D to human health. Actually a form of hormone, Vitamin D exerts a powerful influence on virtually every cell in the body as it’s been shown to activate the immune systems ability to identity and thwart pathogens and rogue cancer cells.

Medical science has been aware of the health benefits of Vitamin D for decades, noting that certain cancers are much more prevalent in colder northern climates than in the sun-saturated southern geographic zones. Research published in the journal Nature Immunology provides the evidence and scientific evidence behind this miraculous pro-hormone.

Vitamin D Activates the Immune Response

Our body is very sensitive to Vitamin D circulating in the blood, with insufficient levels leading to poor immune system response and disease. Man has evolved with much higher blood levels of Vitamin D than many people experience today, due to regular sun exposure experienced by our ancestors. Our genetic code has incorporated this hormone and uses it to perform many cellular functions.

Scientists have discovered that Vitamin D activates white blood cell components of our innate immune system known as T-cells, which are responsible for tagging an intruder pathogen for destruction. This study is important because it demonstrates that this is only possible when there’s enough Vitamin D circulating in the blood. When the vitamin is deficient, there’s no detection and the pathogen or rogue cancer cell are permitted to flourish and multiply.

Vitamin D Trains the Immune System for Future Assaults

Under the guidance of Vitamin D, the T-cells are able to store information which helps our immune system recall prior invaders, and how to respond to them more quickly if a future attack should occur. Disease response memory is critical to providing natural defenses as we age, since the body can rapidly identify and conquer a host of pathogens as it continually adapts to its environment. Many researchers believe this is a key reason that man has been able to survive and evolve in a relatively hostile viral environment.

Vitamin D Critical to Cancer Prevention: Supplement
While Vitamin D is an important factor in the reduction of risk from diabetes and heart disease to stroke and dementia, it’s critical in the prevention and even treatment of many types of cancer. When sufficient blood levels of Vitamin D are present, the active receptors on each cell in the body are filled, providing a metabolic instruction manual for cellular replication.

As cancer is a disease initiated through genetic mutation, it’s important to effectively replicate DNA strands to future cellular generations. This occurs under the control of Vitamin D, and only when optimal amounts are present on the cellular receptors. Monitor blood levels of vitamin D through regular blood testing to ensure a level above 50 ng/ml.

The missing link to understanding many of the most devastating diseases which plague mankind is now within our grasp, as we better understand the role of Vitamin D in activating the scavenging power of our own immune system.

Researchers estimate that 80% of the US population is deficient in Vitamin D and requires some level of supplementation, yet most are unaware that they can dramatically lower their risk from developing a host of lethal conditions. Have your blood checked today and harness the power of your own immune system toward a healthy, disease free life.

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Posted in: Immune Health,Supplements,Vitamin D

Best Weight Loss Nutrients

(Article first published as Nutrients for Weight Loss Success on Technorati.)

New research from the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition indicates that resveratrol has a powerful effect on our metabolism and our ability to effectively lose weight. This is great news for the millions of Americans who are overweight or obese and need help dropping pounds to reduce their risk of heart disease, stroke, diabetes and many types of cancer.

It’s important to understand that nutrients can assist with healthy weight loss, but are not a substitute for a well balanced, reduced calorie diet and regular exercise. Nutrients such as Resveratrol and Vitamin D work at the cellular level to burn fat by increasing metabolism, preventing new fat cells from forming and reducing body inflammation.

Drink Red Wine, Eat Grapes and Lose Weight

Resveratrol has evolved as a powerful protective mechanism to certain plants, providing them with defenses against natural enemies. Best known as the key ingredient behind the ‘French Paradox’, whereby people eating a relatively unhealthy diet are protected against heart disease and cancer, resveratrol has now been shown to inhibit the production of new fat cells.

This works at the genetic level, as resveratrol triggers a special anti-aging gene known as Sirt1. When Sirt1 is positively expressed by eating a healthy reduced calorie diet, a cascade of survival mechanisms kick in which have evolved to keep up alive in lean times. Research demonstrates that resveratrol can mimic the effect of eating a low calorie diet and spring the Sirt1 gene into action, halting new fat cells from forming. Resveratrol is a powerful tool to compliment your healthy dietary lifestyle. It’s recommended to supplement with 50 to 100 mg daily.

The Sunshine Vitamin is Essential for Weight Loss

Vitamin D is one of the best studied nutrients, shown to reduce the risk of many potentially fatal diseases. Vitamin D is a fat soluble substance, meaning it’s stored in our fat cells for later use. Researchers are still working to determine whether obesity causes Vitamin D deficiency or if Vitamin D deficiency results in obesity, but the results are conclusive. The amount of Vitamin D circulating in your blood is directly related to the amount of weight lost when following a reduced calorie diet.

Vitamin D is actually a hormone which is required by every cell in the body, and scientists believe it holds the key to how our cells replicate. 80% of adults are Vitamin D deficient when tested, which may hold a significant key to our skyrocketing obesity problem. Now we know that it exerts a strong effect on how fat is stored and released. Reduce the risk of serious illness and drive weight loss by having your blood tested and supplement with 4000 to 6000 IU of Vitamin D daily.

Healthy weight loss is difficult for 95% of those who have tried in vain, but failed. Eating a well-balanced, reduced calorie diet and physical activity are prerequisites to lose weight, yet many people need something more. New science is providing an answer. Resveratrol and Vitamin D may be the trigger to stimulate metabolism and reduce inflammation naturally, leading to permanent weight loss and a new lease on life.

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Posted in: Diet and Nutrition,Genes,Resveratrol,Supplements,Vitamin D,weight loss