There is a lot of talk about the benefits of vitamin D lately…most of which actually has some scientific merit actually.

Low vitamin D levels are associated with (that doesn’t mean “cause”) increased risk for heart disease, heart attacks and high blood pressure.  Vitamin D has also been implicated as beneficial in mitigating cancer risk as well as maintaining a healthy immune system.  Again, it’s important to note that vitamin D won’t cure or prevent these conditions, but having the right amount of vitamin D sounds more and more like a good idea.

The right amount then, is this:

• 600 IU for males & females between the ages 19 and 70
• 800 IU for males & females above the age of 70

And yes…you can have too much; 4000 IU of vitamin D daily and above is too much. Studies show that taking vitamin D in these amounts can have adverse effects on your health.  So…more is NOT better, but better make sure you’re getting enough!