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Vitamin D deficiency alters lung growth and decreases lung function

Researchers found that vitamin D-deficient mice had reduced lung volume, lower airway resistance, and smaller lungs compared to control mice. The study suggests a potential link between vitamin D deficiency and obstructive lung disease, highlighting the need for future studies on prevention and treatment strategies.

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateJan 28, 2011

Study of UK TB patients shows that some recover more quickly if their antibiotics are supplemented with high-dose vitamin D

A new study found that supplementing antibiotics with high-dose vitamin D can significantly reduce the time needed for TB bacteria to clear from sputum culture by almost a week in patients with specific genetic profiles. The treatment improved response in those with the tt genotype of the TaqI vitamin D receptor polymorphism.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateJan 5, 2011

Study finds low vitamin-d levels in northern California residents with metabolic syndrome

Researchers at UC Davis Health System found significantly reduced vitamin D levels in patients with metabolic syndrome living in Northern California. The study suggests that supplementation with vitamin D may reduce the risk of diabetes and heart disease, contradicting previous assumptions about adequate sun exposure in sunny latitudes.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis Health·JournalHormone and Metabolic Research·DateNov 30, 2010

Low vitamin D while pregnant or breastfeeding may not be associated with multiple sclerosis relapse

A study of 28 pregnant women with MS found that lower vitamin D levels during pregnancy and breastfeeding were not associated with an increased risk of relapse after childbirth. However, women who breastfed exclusively had lower postpartum vitamin D levels, which may be related to the duration of breastfeeding rather than a causal link.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Neurology·DateNov 8, 2010

Vitamin D may treat and prevent allergic reaction to mold in cystic fibrosis patients

Researchers found that vitamin D can reduce the production of a protein driving an allergic response in cystic fibrosis patients and increase production of proteins promoting tolerance. The findings support a potential clinical trial to prevent or treat Allergic Bronchopulmonary Aspergillosis (ABPA) in these patients.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateAug 25, 2010

Biochemist proposes worldwide policy change to step up daily vitamin D intake

A leading international expert in vitamin D, Anthony Norman, recommends increasing daily intake to 2,000-4,000 IU for most adults to maximize health benefits. This could effectively eradicate rickets in infants and reduce the frequency of diseases such as cancer, cardiovascular disease, and autoimmune type-1 diabetes.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalExperimental Biology and Medicine·DateAug 9, 2010

Vitamin D deficiency linked to arterial stiffness in black teens

A new study published in The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism found that vitamin D deficiency is associated with increased arterial stiffness in black teens. Researchers discovered that higher doses of vitamin D supplementation (2,000 IU) improved cardiovascular health and reduced central arterial stiffness.

SourceThe Endocrine Society·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateJul 29, 2010

New vitamin D guidelines

The new guidelines update Osteoporosis Canada's recommendations on vitamin D intake for Canadians, citing the need for more research into optimal doses and safe upper limits. The recommended daily supplements range from 400-1000 IU for adults under 50, with higher doses required for those over 50.

SourceUniversity of Calgary·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateJul 13, 2010

Vitamin D deficiency increases the risk of cognitive decline in the elderly

A study by Dr. David J. Llewellyn found that vitamin D deficiency is associated with a higher risk of substantial general cognitive decline and new problems with mental flexibility. The research involved over 850 older adults, showing that those with severe vitamin D deficiencies were 60% more likely to experience cognitive decline.

SourceThe Peninsula College of Medicine and Dentistry·JournalArchives of Internal Medicine·DateJul 12, 2010

Vitamin D levels associated with Parkinson's disease risk

A 29-year follow-up study of Finnish men and women found that individuals with higher vitamin D levels had a significantly lower risk of developing Parkinson's disease. The study suggests a potential link between chronic inadequacy of vitamin D and the development of Parkinson's disease.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Neurology·DateJul 12, 2010

Low vitamin D levels associated with cognitive decline

Researchers found that low vitamin D levels are associated with cognitive decline in older adults, particularly in executive function. The study, which assessed 858 adults over six years, showed a 60% increased risk of substantial cognitive decline among those with severely deficient vitamin D levels.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Internal Medicine·DateJul 12, 2010

More than skin deep, tanning product of sun's rays

Researchers found that tanning is a response to varying levels of ultraviolet radiation, particularly in middle and high latitudes. This adaptation helps protect humans from harmful effects of sunlight, including vitamin D deficiency and folate destruction.

SourcePenn State·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 21, 2010

Genetic factors affect risk of vitamin D insufficiency

A genome-wide association study found three genetic variants significantly associated with vitamin D concentrations and risk of insufficiency. Participants with certain genotypes were at two-and-a-half times increased risk of having low vitamin D levels, highlighting the importance of genetic factors in regulating vitamin D status.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateJun 9, 2010