All articles tagged with #vitamin d
A 2025 meta-analysis indicates that taking vitamin D2 supplements can lower blood levels of vitamin D3, the form naturally produced by sunlight. While D2 still raises overall vitamin D status, experts recommend D3 for better efficacy and immune support.
A 2025 meta-analysis reveals that taking vitamin D2 supplements can reduce levels of vitamin D3, the form more effective at maintaining blood vitamin D status. While D2 still offers some benefits, experts suggest D3 is generally preferable for most people.
No single beverage can prevent osteoporosis, but choosing drinks rich in calcium, vitamin D, and protein supports bone strength. Milk and fortified plant-based options are primary sources, while water and mineral water aid hydration. Limiting sugary sodas and excessive caffeine is recommended to maintain optimal calcium balance.
A new observational study from Emory University indicates that older adults with mild cognitive impairment and sleep disturbances may experience better cognitive performance when taking high daily doses of vitamin D. The research, published in the journal Sleep Medicine, suggests that supplementing with 5,000 international units or more daily is associated with higher scores on standard cognitive assessments. While the study does not prove causation, it highlights vitamin D as a potentially modifiable factor for supporting brain health in individuals at elevated risk for progressing to Alzheimer's disease.
A new Times of India report highlights that the common belief that 10-15 minutes of daily sun exposure guarantees adequate vitamin D is flawed, as production depends on UVB intensity, skin tone, and clothing. While British Vogue notes that one in six Britons have suboptimal levels due to low autumn UVB, both sources emphasize that self-prescribing high-dose supplements without testing is dangerous. Experts advise that the goal is adequate levels, not maximum saturation, and recommend medical guidance over guesswork.
Cyclists face heightened risks of illness and injury in winter due to cold exposure, reduced sunlight, and indoor crowding. Experts recommend covering the face to protect airways, taking probiotics to maintain immune-supporting amino acids, stretching to prevent tendon tears, supplementing with vitamin D, practicing strict hygiene, limiting alcohol, and maintaining regular riding to support lymphatic flow.
A large systematic review indicates that routine calcium and vitamin D supplementation offers little to no protection against fractures or falls for most older adults, suggesting a need to shift focus toward exercise-based interventions.
As autumn approaches, reduced sunlight exposure in the US and UK is driving concerns about vitamin D deficiency. Experts warn that low levels can cause bone pain, muscle weakness, and mood changes. While sunlight is the primary source, indoor lifestyles and darker skin tones increase risk. Health professionals recommend supplements for those with limited sun exposure, though they caution that supplements are not a cure-all for all health issues.
Recent observational studies suggest that popular supplements like vitamin D, fish oil, and glucosamine may be associated with faster cognitive decline in older adults, contradicting their reputation as brain-protecting. While no federal agency has issued warnings, experts urge caution, noting that these active compounds may behave differently in aging brains. The findings are preliminary and do not prove causation, but they highlight the need for age-specific dosing guidance and medical review for seniors taking multiple supplements.
New observational studies suggest that fish oil, glucosamine, and vitamin D may be associated with faster cognitive decline in older adults, though causation is not proven. Experts advise consulting a doctor before stopping these supplements, as the evidence is preliminary and conflicting.
A new study suggests that breast cancer patients with low vitamin D levels may experience more pain and require more opioid medication after surgery.
Scientists are examining whether widely used supplements like vitamin D, omega-3 fish oil, and glucosamine may negatively impact brain health in older adults, challenging the assumption that these products are universally beneficial.
A large meta-analysis published in The BMJ indicates that routine supplementation with calcium, vitamin D, or both does not significantly reduce the risk of falls or fractures in older adults. The study analyzed 69 trials involving nearly 154,000 participants and found no substantial benefit compared to placebos or no treatment. Researchers urge medical professionals to reassess general prescribing guidelines, noting that while supplements remain useful for those with diagnosed bone diseases, they may be ineffective for the general elderly population. In France, where falls cause 10,000 deaths annually among those over 65, this finding challenges standard preventive practices. Experts suggest that dietary choices, muscle-strengthening exercises, and avoiding smoking may be more critical for bone health than supplementation. The findings do not apply to patients undergoing osteoporosis treatment, for whom supplements may still enhance therapeutic outcomes.
A new observational study from Emory University suggests that taking at least 5,000 IU of vitamin D daily is associated with significantly higher cognitive test scores among adults with mild cognitive impairment and sleep disturbances. While the study was small, the findings highlight a potential modifiable factor for early-stage dementia prevention.
A new observational study from Emory University finds that older adults with mild cognitive impairment and sleep issues who take at least 5,000 IU of vitamin D daily score 13% higher on cognitive tests than non-users. While the study suggests a potential link between high-dose supplementation and better brain function, experts caution that the small sample size and observational nature mean causation cannot be established. Researchers plan further clinical trials to determine if vitamin D can be used as a modifiable intervention to delay dementia progression.