Vitamin D is now known to be linked to over 200 different genes, in that its presence or deficiency can impact the way that those genes operate. These genes include several which are related to some cancers as well as autoimmune conditions such as multiple sclerosis, type 1 diabetes, rickets, Crohn’s disease and even dementia.
This link between Vitamin D and DNA occurs within the vitamin D receptors (VDRs) which connect with various parts in specific places along the human genome. This leads doctors to believe that Vitamin D plays an exceptionally important role in preventing this type of disease as well as in achieving the best possible health.
These beliefs are not without clinical support. More than eight hundred studies have shown that vitamin D is effective in the prevention of cancer. In fact, research is saying that by ensuring that you receive the right amount of vitamin D and by avoiding deficiencies in this nutrient, you can reduce the risk of some cancers by fifty percent and reduce the chances of developing diabetes or heart disease by forty three percent.
Vitamin D is even known to support the gene that regulates the ability to fight chronic inflammation as well as infections. It encourages the body to produce more than two hundred anti-microbial peptides, such as cathelicidin, which is a broad-spectrum antibiotic which occurs naturally in the body.
Unfortunately, new studies are indicating that 85 percent of Americans are deficient in vitamin D. Experts are encouraging people to speak to their doctors about whether or not they are vitamin D deficient and how to increase their vitamin D levels if it is necessary.
Sources:
- http://www.foodconsumer.org/newsite/Nutrition/Vitamins/cancer_diabetes_0609100640.html
- http://www.mb.com.ph/articles/274802/sunshine-vit-d-influences-more-200-genes
