Mechanisms underlying the actions of vitamin D
Dr. Christine Gonzalez from Los Angeles, California, has written a thorough review of vitamin D.
Let’s focus on the actions of vitamin D thought to contribute to disease prevention.
Vitamin D effects
- Cancer
- Decreases spread of cells (proliferation) and increases cell differentiation
- Stops the growth of new blood vessels
- Significant anti-inflammatory effects
- Studies suggest a link between low vitamin D levels and an increased risk of cancer, with the strongest evidence for colorectal cancer.
- Heart disease
- Evidence that the protective effect of vitamin D on the heart could be via the renin-angiotensin hormone system, through the suppression of inflammation, or directly on the cells of the heart and blood-vessel walls.
- Fractures and falls
- Vitamin D helps body absorb calcium.
- Vitamin D receptors are located on the fast-twitch muscle fibers, which are the first to respond in a fall.
- It’s theorized that vitamin D may increase muscle strength, thereby preventing falls.
- Autoimmune diseases and influenza
- Vitamin D has a role in regulating the immune system and a strong anti-inflammatory effect.
- It’s theorized that vitamin D deficiency could contribute to autoimmune diseases such as multiple sclerosis, type 1 diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, and autoimmune thyroid disease.
The bottom line?
In the past few years, study after study has supported the importance of vitamin D in preventing and managing medical conditions, and the risks associated with inadequate blood levels.
Dr. Gonzalez concludes, “As the number of people with vitamin D deficiency continues to increase, the importance of this hormone in overall health and the prevention of chronic diseases is at the forefront of research.
1/17/11 20:34 JR
