Why do we care about vitamin D during cancer treatment

Keeping track of your vitamin D levels has many potential benefits. Nutrients help strengthen the immune system and promote healthy cell growth. It is necessary for the development and nourishment of strong bones. Helps enhance muscle strength and agility. Some studies suggest that vitamin D may reduce the risk of cancer. But depending on your diet and where you live, you may be deficient in vitamin D and not even know it. “We have a ‘silent epidemic’ of vitamin D deficiency across the country,” says Eugene Ahn, MD, medical director of clinical research at our hospital near Chicago.

The relationship of vitamin D to cancer

The relationship between vitamin D levels and cancer is not yet clear. But several studies published this year have linked vitamin D deficiency to the behavior of cancer cells. Researchers at Stanford Medical Center, for example, concluded that in their study in lab mice, breast cancer cells grew faster and were more likely to spread in mice with lower levels of vitamin D. “People at high risk of developing breast cancer should know their vitamin D levels and take steps to correct any deficiencies,” Dr. Brian Feldman of Stanford University told ScienceDaily.com. Another Northwestern University study suggests that low levels of vitamin D in men being treated for prostate cancer may indicate a more aggressive form of cancer.

Dr. Ahn adds that it’s important to know your vitamin D level before and during cancer treatment. Much remains unknown about how the vitamin affects treatments, such as immunotherapy, “but given the basic science and relative safety of vitamin D, I would recommend replacing vitamin D as a major component of comprehensive cancer care.” Dr. Ann says.

What can you do to increase your vitamin D?

Consider turning to good sources of vitamin D, including:

Sunlight: The sun helps convert the body into a factory of vitamin D, as the skin exposed to UV rays produces vitamin D3, which is then processed into vitamin D. But be careful. You don’t need prolonged exposure to the sun to make vitamin D, and it only takes a few minutes for the sun to cause damage that can lead to skin cancer. In fact, the American Academy of Dermatology recommends not getting vitamin D from the sun.

Fish and mushrooms: Silver-sized fish, such as cod and mackerel, are good sources of vitamin D. Mushrooms are a great vegetable source. Eggs and many other popular breakfast options, when fortified, such as milk, yogurt, cereal, and orange juice, can also help. But it’s hard to get enough vitamin D from food alone.

Supplementation: Taking your vitamin in pill form may be recommended if you have a vitamin D deficiency and can be an effective way to fix the deficiency, says Dr. Ann.

Dr. Ahn also has an important caveat. “Excess levels of vitamin D can cause kidney stones,” he says. “So no matter what your strategy is, it’s important to talk to your doctor about your levels.”