In my previous post, the results from a recent blood test revealed that I have a Vitamin D deficiency. My doctor immediately prescribed Vitamin D to take with my meals twice a day.
This revelation led to some Google searches on Vitamin D. After conducting some general research, I discovered that people with Vitamin D deficiency are at higher risk for certain chronic diseases and ailments such as-
- diabetes
- heart disease
- rickets
- osteoporosis
- certain cancers
- obesity
Source: Global Healing Center
Also, lack of vitamin D not only reeks havoc on a person's physical health, but mental health as well. In Norway, a three year study was conducted on over 400 overweight or obese patients. Participants that had lower Vitamin D levels (<16/ml), displayed higher levels of depression than those who had Vitamin D levels greater than >16/ml. Source: Vitamin D revolution
After reading these different articles, I had to ask myself how long was I Vitamin D deficient and how much of an impact did it have on my weight? Also, could it be the key to help me keep the fat off and regulate my weight?
A number of studies have been conducted looking at the correlation between the lack of Vitamin D and obesity. While the studies can not say for certain if lack of Vitamin D actually causes obesity, people who are obese do lack vitamin D. Also, patients who increased their Vitamin D intake loss more weight overall than those who did not (note: these patients were also on a very low calorie restricted diet). The reason for the weight loss? It could be that Vitamin D also plays a significant role in regulating a person's blood sugar. Source: Science Daily
If you have struggled with weight all of your life, it may be worth your while to have your primary physician conduct an extensive blood test to measure your levels of Vitamin D. If your levels are below 20/ml, then you may have a Vitamin D insufficiency. Anything under 15/ml is considered a deficency (mine measured at 10/ml).
In the upcoming months, my doctor intends to do another blood test to see if my weight loss and intake of Vitamin D will yield an improvement in my Vitamin D levels.
For more reading on Vitamin D, check out the links below:
http://www.globalhealingcenter.com/natural-health/10-foods-containing-vitamin-d/
http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/06/090611142524.htm
http://www.vitamindcouncil.org/depression.shtml