We Need More Vitamin D!

Winter is on its way, so of course the sunshine in lovely Portland is going to be in short supply for a while. Getting enough vitamin D through diet isn't easy, so doctors recommend a supplement for people in not-so-sunny places.

Vitamin D has plenty of benefits. A recent study reported that rates of heart attack, stroke and heart failure were about 50 percent higher in those with low levels of vitamin D. It may also lower risk of heart disease, colon cancer, and breast cancer

The Institute of Medicine suggests 400 International Units (IUs) a day for adults, but some think 800 IUs is more like it. In either case, pick up a vitamin supplement. If you already take a multi-vitamin, double-check the amount of vitamin D you're getting with that, and supplement it if need be. Be aware that you can go overboard with vitamin D, so don't take more than the recommended dose.