Vitamin D is being touted as a super nutrient that can help everything from heart disease to cancer. But is it really as great as it’s made out to be?
Myth
Clinical trials have proven that vitamin D prevents cancer.
Truth
Recent research shows links between vitamin D deficiency and a host of diseases including obesity, heart disease, multiple sclerosis, certain cancers and depression.
Myth
Your body can produce enough vitamin D on its own.
Truth
Most of the vitamin D in people comes from exposure to sunlight. Your skin produces vitamin D in response to exposure to UVB rays. Vitamin D supplements are currently recommended in cases where extended exposure to the sun is a concern, for all adults over 50 or for those who do not get enough vitamin D from their diets.
Myth
You don’t need a supplement if you spend a lot of time outside.
Truth
If you work outside year-round, you may not need a vitamin D supplement, says Vieth. But since the majority of us cannot be guaranteed to receive consistent, safe exposure to UVB rays, it’s best to ask your doctor whether taking a vitamin D supplement is right for you.
Myth
There’s no way to tell how much vitamin D I need
Truth
The amount of vitamin D in your blood determines how much supplementation you need, and you can ask your physician for a simple blood test to find out your levels.
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