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Calcium and vitamin D help hormones help bones

A large analysis of the Women's Health Initiative trial found that combining hormone therapy with calcium and vitamin D supplements significantly reduces the risk of hip fractures. The study suggests that women taking postmenopausal hormone therapy should consider taking these supplements to boost bone health.

SourceThe Menopause Society·JournalMenopause·DateJun 26, 2013

Calcium supplements linked to longer lifespans in women

A study published in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism found that taking calcium supplements up to 1,000 mg per day can lower the risk of death in women. The research, conducted on 9,033 Canadians over 12 years, showed no benefit for men and no conclusive evidence that vitamin D has an impact on mortality.

SourceMcGill University·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateMay 22, 2013

Vitamin D: More may not be better

New research from Johns Hopkins finds that high doses of vitamin D supplements do not confer additional benefits on cardiovascular health or longevity in healthy adults. However, elderly individuals, postmenopausal women, and those with kidney disease may still benefit from higher blood levels of the sunshine vitamin.

Optimal vitamin D dosage for infants uncertain

A study found that no vitamin D dosage maintained plasma concentrations within the recommended range by pediatric societies, but all dosages raised levels within a lower range. The 1,600-IU/d dosage was discontinued due to elevated plasma 25(OH)D concentrations, indicating the need for further studies on optimal dosages.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateApr 30, 2013

Researchers discover mushrooms can provide as much vitamin D as supplements

Researchers from Boston University School of Medicine discovered that eating mushrooms containing Vitamin D2 can increase and maintain vitamin D levels comparable to taking supplements. The study found that ingesting mushroom powder containing Vitamin D2 was as effective in raising and maintaining healthy adults' vitamin D status.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalDermato-Endocrinology·DateApr 22, 2013

Vitamin D proven to boost energy -- from within the cells

A study from Newcastle University found that vitamin D supplements improve muscle efficiency in patients with severe deficiency, leading to reduced fatigue and improved mitochondrial oxidative function. The research suggests a link between vitamin D and mitochondrial function, potentially offering a new way to boost energy levels.

SourceNewcastle University·JournalJournal of Endocrinology·DateApr 5, 2013

Obesity leads to vitamin D deficiency

A recent study published in PLOS Medicine found a strong association between obesity and vitamin D deficiency. The research, led by Dr Elina Hypponen, used genetic markers to explore the link between body mass index (BMI) and genes associated with vitamin D synthesis and metabolism.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateFeb 5, 2013

Which nutritional factors help preserve muscle mass, strength and performance in seniors?

A new review by the International Osteoporosis Foundation's Nutrition Working Group highlights the importance of protein intake (1.0-1.2 g/kg body weight) and vitamin D supplementation for maintaining muscle mass and strength in seniors. The review also suggests avoiding dietary acid loads and incorporating more fruits and vegetables i...

SourceInternational Osteoporosis Foundation·JournalOsteoporosis International·DateJan 18, 2013

Obese moms risk having babies with low vitamin D

A new Northwestern Medicine study found that obese mothers pass on insufficient vitamin D to their babies, leading to lower levels in newborns. The study also suggests that obese women may need increased vitamin D supplementation to provide sufficient levels for their babies during pregnancy.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateJan 7, 2013

Low vitamin D levels in pregnancy associated with lower birth weights, pitt research finds

Women deficient in vitamin D early in pregnancy are more likely to deliver babies with lower birth weights. Maternal vitamin D deficiency may impact fetal growth by reducing calcium absorption and glucose production, leading to a higher risk of small for gestational age births.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateDec 20, 2012

Mother's vitamin D level linked to birth weight

A recent study published in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism found that a mother's vitamin D level is positively related to birth weight and head circumference. Additionally, a deficiency in vitamin D during the first trimester was negatively associated with the risk of a baby being born small for gestational age.

SourceThe Endocrine Society·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateDec 10, 2012