Yet Another Reason to Take Vitamin D

People who had abundant vitamin D in their blood at the time of colon cancer diagnosis were less likely to die of the disease—or of any other cause—compared to people with low levels of the vitamin, according to a new study from researchers at Boston’s Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. The vitamin reduced risk of death by 40% to 50%.

Previous studies have shown that people with high blood levels of vitamin D are less likely to develop colon cancer. This is the first to suggest that high levels also improve survival once you’ve been diagnosed.

Vitamin D is known to regulate cellular growth and influences the immune system, decreasing the risk of cells becoming malignant. Many people don’t get enough vitamin D.

A study is being planned in which colon cancer patients will take vitamin D along with post-surgery chemotherapy to look for benefits from the vitamin D supplements. (Ng, K. et al. J Clin Oncol. 2008 Jun 20;26(18):2984-91.)

The Anti-Aging Bottom Line: There are plenty of good reasons to make sure you are getting adequate vitamin D. Now, add a new one: surviving colon cancer. Talk with your doctor. New research shows that people may need up to 10 times the RDA to attain optimal blood levels of vitamin D.

QUICK TIP: Getting adequate vitamin D may prevent or reverse some mood and memory problems. Learn More

RELATED PRODUCTS: All of our Multi Nutrient Formulas contain 1,000 IU of vitamin D. In 2007, we increased the amount in our formulas from 600 IU to 1,000 IU, in response to research indicating that the RDA for vitamin D is far too low for most adults.

Written exclusively for Stop Aging Now, the authority on anti-aging research, anti-aging nutrition, and anti-aging supplements.