Wednesday, July 10, 2013

Improving vitamin D status - starts with the gut

Daily supplements of probiotic strain Lactobacillus reuteri NCIMB 30242 may boost circulating vitamin D levels in the blood by 25%, say results of a post-hoc analysis of a published randomized controlled trial.

Another tick in the long list of health benefits of probiotics. This one from a company at the forefront of research to show how the gut microbiome can be manipulated positively to deliver a host of physical and mental health benefits! It’s been known for ages that a healthy gut is important for ensuring absorption of all nutrients, vitamin D included. But this latest study shows that a particular strain of probiotics can actually increase circulating levels of vitamin D - better absorption may not be the only factor involved - researchers propose that more vitamin D precursor is being produced.

But if you’re thinking vitamin D and bone strength, reflect on another new study. There is a direct and causal relationship between vitamin D status, high blood pressure and the risk of heart attack and stroke, according to new genetic research data. So many benefits of vitamin D and one of the reasons why I advocate regular sun exposure free from the protective effects of sunscreen - important for all ages and life stages, particularly important during infancy and childhood. 


And if you still have doubts about getting out in the sun, check this link to a video explaining how gene expression is linked to Vitamin D.

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