The soda pop guzzling generation has come of age and now they are raising the next generation to follow in their footsteps. What am I talking about? The American Academy of Pediatrics today has doubled its vitamin D recommendation to 400 units per day for children from newborns to teens. Most commercially available milk is fortified with vitamin D, but most children and teens don't drink enough milk to get the amount needed. Add to that the fear of over-exposure to sunlight (the best source of natural vitamin D) and prevalence of video games and other indoor activities and you have a growing population of children lacking in vitamin D.
Why is vitamin D so important to fibromyalgia sufferers?
Natural Vitamin D
Researchers have discovered that vitamin D can reduce the risk of several medical conditions, including osteoporosis, gum disease, diabetes, arthritis, multiple sclerosis and even certain types of cancer. Studies have also indicated vitamin D deficiency as being a major cause of unexplained muscle and bone pain. Gregory A. Plotnikoff, MD, of the University of Minnesota Medical School is quoted as saying "unexplained pain may very well be linked to a vitamin D deficiency". If you are suffering from unexplained pain it is your best interest to see your doctor and have your vitamin D level checked.
Individuals who are dealing with fibromyalgia symptoms should focus on getting more vitamin D into their diets. Here are some suggestions:
Eat more vitamin D-rich foods
Salmon Mackerel Tuna Cod liver oil Sardines Shrimp Skim and 1% low-fat milk Shittake mushrooms Fortified low fat yogurts Fortified cereals Egg yolk Swiss cheese
Sun Exposure
UV rays from the sun trigger vitamin D production in your skin Ten to fifteen minutes of sun exposure at least two times per week to the face, arms, hands, or back without sunscreen is usually sufficient to provide adequate vitamin D.
Vitamin Supplements
For women taking extra calcium, buy a brand that also provides vitamin D3, not regular vitamin D. For men who would like to take additional vitamin D, look for a supplement that provides 400-1000 IUs of D3, also called cholcalciferol. Men should not take supplemental calcium due to possible risks for prostate concerns.
Patients with fibromyalgia are deficient of vitamin D. The more severe the fibromyalgia, the lower the Vitamin D levels. Follow the suggestions above and keep a pain journal and food diary to track your progress.