Over the last few years, I have noticed that many of my patients who come in with complaints as simple as mood changes, to extreme fatigue and joint pain, have a  similar issue. Nothing sinister or life-threatening but nonetheless important -they are lacking Vitamin D.

I had one patient who was having constant muscle cramps in her lower leg and nothing was helping. Her test revealed that she was lacking Vitamin D.  A simple blood test changed everything for her and after having enough Vitamin D in her system her leg cramps completely dissipated.

We now know that Vitamin D is almost a panacea. I say “almost” because it does have some wonderful elements but it is not a cure-all. Research in the last few years has shown that Vitamin D keeps our bones strong, helps us absorb calcium and has protective elements in health problems such as heart disease, hypertension, diabetes, some cancers such as colon, prostate and breast cancer and MS. It is also important for the elderly because they are so susceptible to falls because of their frail bones.

We get Vitamin D in a few ways. The best way, of course, is sunlight, approximately 15 minutes per day, three times a week. Living in a cold climate doesn’t make it easy to get sunlight all the time (unless you are a snowbird) so obtaining it in food or taking supplements is another way and an excellent way of getting Vitamin D. The recommended dosage is 600 iu if you are between 9- 70 years of age.

The old adage an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure is quite fitting. Everyone needs their Vitamin D.

Dr Pershang Ghaderi
Clinique Medicelle