Vitamin D - the sunshine vitamin - may be a potent defense against cancer.

Vitamin D has long been linked with the body's ability to maintain healthy bones and prevent the onset of osteoporosis. And now yet another study adds to the body of evidence that says the “sunshine vitamin” may also help to cut the risk of cancer.

The four-year study, conducted at Creighton University in Nebraska, found that people who took calcium and vitamin D and had higher levels in their blood were 77 per cent less likely to develop cancer after the first year, compared to those who took placebos or only calcium. The study involved 1,024 women over the age of 55.

Based on this finding, the Canadian Cancer Society now recommends that adults take vitamin D – but with caution. After consulting a doctor or healthcare provider, the society suggests that Adults living in Canada
consider taking vitamin D supplementation of 1,000 international units (IU) a day during the fall and winter.

• Adults at higher risk of having lower vitamin D levels should consider taking Vitamin D supplementation of 1,000 IU/day all year round. This includes people who are older, have dark skin and don't go outside often or wear clothing that covers most of their skin.

“We're recommending 1,000 IUs daily because the current evidence suggests this amount will help reduce cancer risk with the least potential for harm,” says Heather Logan, Director, Cancer Control Policy, Canadian Cancer Society. “More research is needed to clearly define the amount of Vitamin D that will maximize health benefits.”

....from MSN Health website.