I really enjoy receiving feedback from my clients. It allows me to stay abreast of questions or issues they may have, as well as interacting with them on a personal level. Occasionally, the same question will come up again and again.
Several of you have asked if there is a link between Vitamin D deficiency and hypertension (high blood pressure).
Vitamin D is actually several different vitamins " Vitamin D2 and D3 specifically. Vitamin D3 is produced when a persons skin is exposed to sunlight or ultraviolet light. In fact, sunlight is the easiest way to get the required amount of Vitamin D.
Vitamin D helps in the absorption of calcium, which is needed to form and maintain healthy bones. Additionally, Vitamin D works in conjuction with other vitamins and minerals to keep the body working properly. If you have a Vitamin D deficiency, you may suffer from more than weak bones.
Studies have shown that a Vitamin D deficiency in conjunction with hypertension makes an individual twice as likely to suffer from a cardiac event (stroke, heart attack, etc.)
Is there a Way to determine if lack of Vitamin D might be my problem?
Since symptoms of Vitamin D are often the same symptoms of other diseases (hypertension, flu-like symptoms, periodontal issues, depression, bone diseases), the best and easiest way to check to see if you are Vitamin D deficient is to have your doctor perform a blood test.
Different groups are more susceptible to Vitamin D deficiencies than others. Older adults cannot synthesize the vitamin as well and therefore, need more Vitamin D to process. They also tend to avoid exposure to sunlight more than younger adults or children.
Areas that do not get as much sunlight certainly make getting the vitamin much more difficult such as northern areas. People who spend little time outdoors or cover the majority of their bodies with clothing will also make getting the vitamin more difficult.
Larger amounts of the pigment, melanin produce darker skin and also reduce its ability to process Vitamin D from ultraviolet exposure.
People who are obese stand an increased chance for Vitamin D deficiency. While their skin still converts sunlight to Vitamin D, it is not as easily distributed throughout the body via circulation as with people of a healthy weight.
Of course, the easiest way to avoid Vitamin D deficiency would be at least 10 minutes of direct sunlight exposure each day. You should, however, consult your doctor first to ensure this will not lead to larger health issues.
Many foods contain Vitamin D either naturally or enhanced " Cod, salmon, mackerel, tuna, milk, eggs, cereal. Consult your doctor to ensure you are eating the required amount to maintain adequate Vitamin D production.
Oral supplements are another option for treating Vitamin D deficiency but should be monitored by your physician since taking too much of this vitamin can adversely affect your health.
A natural way to help or cure high blood pressure is my High Blood Pressure Program. It has been hugely successful for thousands of people.
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