Tuesday, October 26, 2010

Don't Let the Sun Go Down in Your Body...Boost that Vitamin D!!


I've written articles before on the importance of Vitamin D. I personally believe the current RDA is relatively low and most MD's seem to be edging towards an intake of 1,000-2,000 i.u's per day. However, that being said, it is always a great idea to ask your PCP to get a Vitamin. D level done at your next annual exam.

Several of the following drugs increase the risk for and severity of vitamin D insufficiency. The following are a few of the drugs that cause the deficiencies.

Allopurinol (gout) – Results in lowered levels of vitamin D.

Anticonvulsants – Increased risk for vitamin D deficiency with resulting increased risk for osteoporosis.

Cimetidine – Reduces the conjugation of vitamin D.

Oral corticosteroids – Reduced calcium absorption and inhibited vitamin D formation in the liver.

Heparin – Interferes with vitamin D function and increases the risk for osteoporosis and osteomalacia.

Mineral oil – Interferes with vitamin D absorption.


-list courtesy of Harry O. Eidenier Jr. of DSD International