A recent review of more than 40 years of research has found that a daily dose of vitamin D could cut your risk of colon, ovary, and breast cancer by as much as 50%. Cancer authorities in both the UK and USA are stating that swift action is needed by public health agencies to boost the blood level of vitamin D in the general population.

The study published in the online version of the American Journal of Public Health, assessed scientific research published on cancer and vitamin D since the 1960s

Many research studies have shown that a lack of vitamin D may have far reaching and possibly lethal effects. Vitamin D has been shown to have a vital role in protecting ourselves from heart disease, cancer, diabetes, high blood pressure, lung disease, schizophrenia, and multiple sclerosis.

Our bodies make Vitamin D by the action of sunlight on the skin. When you are exposed to the ultraviolet rays from the sun, your skin is able to synthesize vitamin D cholecalciferol (D3) which is stored by your body in fat for subsequent use. Your body will only store vitamin D for about 60 days.

This creates about 90% of the bodys supply of Vitamin D. Unfortunately with the growing use of sunscreens as well as less time spent outdoors there is now a growing problem of vitamin D deficiency. African Americans require a longer time in sunlight as the melanin in their skin acts as a natural sunscreen.

US cancer scientists are recommending a daily dose of 1,000 international units (IUs) of vitamin D for adults. Vitamin D supplements are available at most drug and health food stores. A 90 day supply should not cost more than about ten dollars, and the health benefits will be priceless.