Vitamin D linked to cancer, autoimmune disease genes

As we observe Labor Day 2010, much of the US with a beautiful sunny day... I hope you spent some time outside soaking up a little sun. A recent Reuters reported:

"Scientists have found that vitamin D influences more than 200 genes" and that "Vitamin D deficiency is a well-known risk factor for rickets, and some evidence suggests it may increase susceptibility to autoimmune diseases such as multiple sclerosis (MS), rheumatoid arthritis and type 1 diabetes, as well as certain cancers and even dementia."

Now I'm not worried about rickets, but getting enough Vitamin D, for a healthy immune system is tops on my list. During the summer months it isn't too difficult if you spend at least 20 minutes daily out in the sun. However, the winter months are another story for those of us who live north of Atlanta. Scientists have found it's very difficult, bordering impossible, to get enough sunlight for our bodies to be at optimal Vitamin D levels. Eating foods high in Vitamin D such as salmon, mackerel, herring, eggs, and fish oil will boost your Vitamin D, but for many, including myself, a supplement is the only guarantee that we're getting enough D.

So enjoy the last few weeks of summer by spending a bit of time outdoors everyday. Your immune system will appreciate it!