Sun Deprived? Odds of Disease or Death are 30-50% Worse

Sue Penckofer, PhD, is a study author and professor at the Marcella Niehoff School of Nursing at Loyola University in Chicago. She recently discussed with the press a study in which chronic vitamin D shortages were examined in people with a reduced exposure to sunlight. This problem is common during cold weather months and when days are shorter; people spend more time indoors during these conditions.

These Loyola researchers found that the risk of severe disease or death may be 30 to 50 per cent higher among sun-deprived individuals with heart disease. The research team led by Penckofer suggests that diet alone is not sufficient to manage vitamin D levels.

Treatment options to correct the deficiency, such as supplemental vitamin D2 or D3, may decrease the risk of severe disease or death from cardiovascular disorders. "Most physicians do not routinely test for vitamin D deficiency," said Penckofer.

"However, most experts would agree that adults at risk for heart disease and others who experience fatigue, joint pain or depression should have their vitamin D levels measured," she added.

This is simply the latest news in a long, long list of pro-Vitamin D press over the last year or two.

Dave