Yet Another Reason to Take Vitamin D
People who had abundant vitamin D in their blood at the time of colon cancer diagnosis were less likely to die of the disease — or of any other cause — compared to people with low levels of the vitamin, according to a new study from researchers at Boston’s Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. The vitamin reduced risk of death by 40% to 50%.
Previous studies have shown that people with high blood levels of vitamin D are less likely to develop colon cancer. This is the first to suggest that high levels also improve survival once you’ve been diagnosed.
Vitamin D is known to regulate cellular growth and influences the immune system, decreasing the risk of cells becoming malignant. Many people don’t get enough vitamin D.
A study is being planned in which colon cancer patients will take vitamin D along with post-surgery chemotherapy to look for benefits from the vitamin D supplements. (Ng, K. et al. J Clin Oncol. 2008 Jun 20;26(18):2984-91.)
The Anti-Aging Bottom Line: There are plenty of good reasons to make sure you are getting adequate vitamin D. Now, add a new one: surviving colon cancer. Talk with your doctor. New research shows that people may need up to 10 times the RDA to attain optimal blood levels of vitamin D.
QUICK TIP: Getting adequate vitamin D may prevent or reverse some mood and memory problems. Learn More
Written exclusively for Stop Aging Now, the authority on anti-aging research, anti-aging nutrition, and anti-aging supplements.
