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Adequate intake of Vitamin D is essentia

by Medindia Content Team on Jul 5 2002 3:18 PM

Researchers at the University of Texas, offer some valuable advice on how to make sure your vitamin D intake is enough.Vitamin D is essential for healthy bones and teeth, and helps prevent osteoporosis and any bone related disease. Doctors believe that natural sunlight helps the body produce vitamin D. Just10 to 15 minutes of natural sunlight three times a week should be adequate. But be warned many factors can reduce sunlight exposure, such as windows, sunscreen, smog and wearing a hat.

So it's vital to look to your diet and maybe even supplements to get enough vitamin D. Choose milk and cereals fortified with the vitamin. Liver, egg yolk and fish are good sources too. A supplement of 400 international units (IU) of vitamin D may improve bone health for women in their 50s and 60s, while older women may need up to 800 IU a day. But talk to your physician or pharmacist before starting on supplements to make sure you get one that's appropriate to your needs.


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