And the Vitamin D controversy continues…
The media has given a lot of attention recently to the multiple health benefits of Vitamin D. Produced in the body by exposure to UVB rays, Vitamin D is necessary for optimal bone health. Recent studies have also shown that it protects against certain cancers and contributes to cardiovascular health. It is difficult to obtain sufficient levels of Vitamin D through diet alone. For this reason we must rely upon fortified foods, nutritional supplements or sun exposure.
Because vitamin D is synthesized by sun exposure (which is also associated with an increase in skin cancer and skin aging), a controversy has arisen amongst different professionals about the right strategy to adopt regarding Vitamin D. Some dermatologists maintain that the fear of Vitamin D deficiency has led individuals to seek out unprotected UV exposure as a way of producing it. This has led to an increase in skin cancers, including melanoma. Others, such as Dr Michael Holick, a School of Medicine professor of medicine, physiology, and biophysics, argue that many of us could use a few more rays; an overblown fear of sun exposure has exacerbated a common deficiency of vitamin D.
Because of the bickering amongst different health professionals many of us are left confused about the Vitamin D situation. A recent debate between Dr Holick and Barbara Gilchrest, a MED professor and former chair of dermatology focuses on the risks and benefits of the sun. While it doesn’t clarify exactly what to do, it does shed light on why it is difficult for everyone to come to an agreement regarding recommendations on achieving optimal Vitamin D levels. Read the transcript of the debate here.
