Vitamin D is a type of fat-soluble vitamin that your body can obtain from sunlight as well as certain foods. This vitamin plays an important role in bone health. In addition to building strong bones, there is some evidence that vitamin D may help protect against prostate cancer, although study results vary and more research is necessary as of 2011 to confirm these benefits.
Vitamin D
Vitamin D helps regulate the levels of phosphorus and calcium in your body. You can obtain vitamin D through sunlight exposure, although your skin tone and age may affect how much sunlight you require to obtain adequate amounts of this vitamin. Vitamin supplements can help guard against a deficiency. The recommended daily intake of vitamin D for adults between 51 and 70 years of age is 400 IU, while adults under the age of 51 require 200 IU daily.
Benefits
Vitamin D is a necessary component in the absorption of calcium, a mineral your body requires for strong, healthy bones. In addition to its recognized ability to preserve bone health, vitamin D may also help treat or prevent certain disorders, such as autism, mood disorders and infectious diseases, although there is too little scientific evidence to support these claims. There is also some indication that vitamin D may help prevent prostate cancer.
Prostate Cancer
A study by the University of Rochester Medical Center shows that vitamin D may minimize the spread of prostate cancer by limiting the normal function of two enzymes, according to Yi-Fen Lee, the assistant professor in charge of the study. Other studies present conflicting information. Vitamin D may help chemotherapy drugs perform better, although tests regarding this benefit also present conflicting information, according to the American Cancer Society.
Warnings
There is no firm evidence that vitamin D prevents or treats any form of cancer. Prostate cancer is a serious disease that requires medical attention. Avoid using vitamin D supplements in place of prescription drugs or other treatments prescribed by your doctor. Vitamin D supplementation can lead to certain side effects, such as bone pain, itchy skin, excessive thirst and vomiting. Vitamin D may interact with certain medications, including calcium channel blockers, statin drugs and corticosteroids.
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