There have been a number of researches that have underlined the importance of early prevention as the best chance against all types of cancer. The best way to lower your risk of this devastating disease is to start changing your lifestyle and habits.
According to the founder of GrassrootsHealth Carol Baggerly, 90% of all breast cancer cases are linked to vitamin D deficiencies, and there are numerous studies that support this fact.
Vitamin D deficiency can lead to a number of health problems, serious conditions which can have devastating consequences on your overall health.
We can get vitamin D from two sources, from plants – vitamin D2 and from direct sunlight exposure – vitamin D3.
How is vitamin D connected to breast cancer?
In 2014 there was a meta-analysis conducted on more than 4500 patients diagnosed with breast cancer. The analysis showed that those who had high levels of vitamin D had a better rate of survival compared to the patients who had lower vitamin D levels. The analysis was conducted over the course of 9 years and its results are unbeatable.
One of the co-authors of the study, Professor Cedric F.Garland elaborated more thoroughly on the connection between vitamin D and cancer growth. He explains that the growth and proliferation of tumor cells is prevented by the vitamin D receptors. Consequently, the patients with higher vitamin D levels had a better chance of surviving and beating the disease.
The people behind this study urge doctors and health experts to monitor vitamin D levels in their patients as one of the most important prevention methods. Vitamin D optimization is also important, especially in those already diagnosed with breast cancer.
According to a study from 2011, 50ng/ml of vitamin D level lowers your chances of breast cancer by 50%.
How to increase your vitamin D levels?
Spend more time outside, especially when it’s sunny, your body synthesizes vitamin D from direct sunlight exposure. And it’s not like you need to spend all day out in the sun, short periods of 15-20 minutes every other day are quite enough. But always remember that the sun rays can be quite dangerous which is why you need to use sun protection and avoid the risk of skin cancer.
You can also take oral supplements but first check your vitamin D levels so that you’re sure you need them, otherwise you’ll risk toxicity. Consult with your doctor before taking any supplements.
Eat food rich in this vitamin, like mushrooms, salmon, herring, sardines and milk.
