End Fatigue

Score Two More for Vitamin D

A new study from Australian researchers shows that low blood levels of vitamin D are associated with a greater risk of heart disease and lupus (a common autoimmune disease).

The researchers studied 50 women with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and 30 healthy women. In both groups, those with lower vitamin D levels were at increased risk for heart disease. Their risk factors included higher blood pressure, higher blood sugar, higher LDL cholesterol and triglycerides, and being overweight. In those with lupus, lower levels of D were linked to more severe disease.

Though contained in the vitamin powder at optimal levels, getting sunshine is still your best source of vitamin D. A good rule of thumb? Avoid sunburn, not sunshine!