Aggressive prostate cancer can be a deadly disease, but researchers at the Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine in Chicago have found that a certain vitamin can slow down cancer and make it more survivable. That crucial vitamin is none other than vitamin D!
The Importance of Vitamin D
Vitamin D is a steroid hormone known to affect the growth and differentiation of both benign and malignant prostate cells, in addition to having an impact on animal models of prostate cancer. The study found that vitamin D deficiency could be a predictor of aggressive forms of prostate cancer diagnosis in both European-American and African-American men.
The best way to learn if you have enough vitamin D in your body is with a blood test measuring levels of 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25-OH D). The normal range of 25-OH D is 30 to 80 nanograms per milliliter (ng/ml). The strong associations discovered in African-American men indicate that vitamin D deficiency is a more significant contributor to prostate cancer in African-American men than in European-American men.
This research suggests that vitamin D supplementation may be a valuable strategy for preventing prostate cancer incidence and slowing down tumor progression in patients already diagnosed with the disease.
Further Research on Vitamin D and Cancer
The Northwestern University researchers plan to evaluate genetic polymorphisms in the pathways of vitamin D metabolism next. This will help them understand the risk alleles underlying the association between vitamin D deficiency and aggressive prostate cancer. The deficiency seems to be crucial for general wellness and may play a role in the formation or progression of several human cancers. It is a wise decision to be screened for vitamin D deficiency and seek treatment if necessary.
According to Harvard Health Publishing, vitamin D is essential for bone health, and some research indicates that it may also protect against chronic diseases such as cancer, type 1 diabetes, and multiple sclerosis. Many people have deficient levels of the vitamin, especially in the winter months when exposure to sunlight, a natural source of vitamin D, is limited. People at risk for vitamin D deficiency include those with darker skin, those who are obese, or those who live in regions with fewer hours of sunlight.
Natural Sources of Vitamin D
The primary source of vitamin D is the sun, and your skin can produce it when exposed to ultraviolet B (UVB) rays. This form of vitamin D, cholecalciferol, is then converted into the active form of the hormone in your liver and kidneys.
However, ultraviolet exposure should be limited due to the increased risk of skin cancer. Therefore, dietary sources and supplements are recommended for obtaining optimal levels of the vitamin.
Some excellent natural dietary sources of vitamin D include fatty fish like salmon, mackerel, and sardines, as well as fish liver oils. Small amounts are also present in egg yolks, beef liver, and cheese. Many food products, such as milk, cereal, and orange juice, are now fortified with vitamin D.
Vitamin D Supplements
For those who don’t get enough vitamin D through sunlight or their diet, supplements are highly recommended. Most over-the-counter vitamin D supplements provide the active form of the hormone and can quickly restore deficient levels in the body. The daily recommended allowance has been set at 600 to 800 international units (IU) for adults, depending on age.
However, determining the optimal level for each individual should be done with guidance from a healthcare professional. Some experts believe the daily recommended dosage of vitamin D is too low and argue a higher dose would provide more significant health benefits. Just as a deficiency can be harmful, excessive amounts of the vitamin can also cause health issues, so it’s essential to find the right balance.
In conclusion, vitamin D is a crucial nutrient for overall wellness, with research highlighting its potential in preventing and managing aggressive forms of prostate cancer. Ensure that you get enough of this vital hormone through sunlight, diet, and supplements if necessary. But remember to discuss your individual needs and concerns with a healthcare professional to reap the full benefits of this powerful vitamin.
