Calcium and Vitamin D

Start taking your Vitamin D particulary if you live north of San Francisco or any other place above that horizontal line. The research strongly supports its value as a supplement. Vitamin D helps calcium build bones, but it also acts hormonally and kicks into action when needed. Research shows that Vitamin D decreases the risk of cancer, infections and metabolic syndrome. It does this because it prompts the production of an antimicrobial substance that acts like a natural antibiotic or an antiviral to destroy harmful cells. As well no evidence shows a negative effect of taking as much as 2,000 IU s per day. Calcium is necessary to protect bones, teeth and blood pressure. Food sources of calcium and Vitamin D include fortified milk products, salmon and mackeral and fortified cereals. But take a supplement to ensure enough and enjoy the benefits of good health.Check out Sally Squire's article on Vitamin D in the Washington Post. It is excellent. http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2007/09/14/AR2007091402124_pf.html