A Hot 100 of Vitamin D Articles

Introduction.

As we all know the internet is full of all sorts of information that is just so easy to access, which must surely mean that getting the vitamin D big picture is an easy thing to do. However, as some of us also know, although that the information on vitamin D might be easy to access - just how reliable and accurate is it really? Although some people are highly sceptical about most information to be found on the internet, it is not fair to say that everything has to be treated with suspicion. However, it is fair to say that the same as if you were seriously researching something in a library, you should always seek more than one point of view on it.

Just how good is Vitamin D advice on the internet?

So, for example, if an article on the internet is headlined “Vitamin D supplements essential to combat keeping out of the sun”, then before rushing out to buy a vitamin D supplement you really should see if there are any other articles out there to support that claim. Also, do discriminate between an article simply being someone’s opinion and articles that are based on or backed up by authoritative statements and links. Using the above example, if it just comes out of ‘the health nuts blog’, without any scientific support and was clearly just some blogger’s opinion; then on something that was health/science related I might just be rather sceptical about it. However, that same article in the same blog site backup up by statements or references to leading health agency or university - just might be worth considering and certainly finding out more about it. Another note to consider here of course, regarding the health authority or university etc is, are they bona fide too? A report by someone claiming to have a diploma from the ‘We love vitamin D’ college in Vitamin D’ology, might not be trustworthy itself either! Whereas something out of the FDA or UCLA etc - well I think I’d be inclined to believe them.

Why not just take someone else’s opinion on the internet?

Sometimes simply taking someone else’s opinion on the internet is absolutely fine. If I just want to amuse myself with what Britney’s up to or what the latest conspiracy theory about Michael Jackson is etc. There is also nothing wrong at all with taking someone else’s opinion about a topic like ‘vitamin D’ on the internet. But, just the same as we all really know a lot of the gossip on the internet about Britney or Jacko etc is just that - gossip, don’t think you have to follow anything that they might also put out as vitamin D advice. Opinion is one thing and fine - but, irresponsibly advising something without factual support could be dangerous.

So, what is the internet saying about vitamin D?

Here at vitaminsandsupplements.com we’ve been keeping an eye on the vitamin D news articles that have been occurring in the web search engines. Below is a ‘hot 100′ selection of them with a simple commentary on each article. Each comment starts off with a link to the actual article and short quotation from it. Our comment simply begins with a simple vitamin D article rating - Good, Not sure or Bad - indicating our opinion as to the veracity of the article, followed by a few words from us explaining why we rated it that way. Oh yes, we haven’t rated any of our own articles on this topic - they’re really not for us to judge ourselves.

How to read the data and information we’ve prepared for you.

First you’ll see the url/hyperlink to click on to read a vitamin D report or article, followed in italics by the source for the article and a brief extract from it. This is followed by three dots (…) and our classification for it - Good, Not sure or Bad. Then the comments you see after the dash (-) are our comments on that particular article.

Some recent internet news reports on vitamin D.

Too little vitamin D can pose risks to health
Lynchburg News and Advance - Lynchburg,VA,USA
Vitamin D supplements can help get levels up. Right now, the recommended daily allowance of vitamin D for adults is 200 to 600 international units - with … Good - a well balanced article with plenty of references to further research. Although not a medical/health website itself, it is clearly journalistic rather than an individual’s blog.

Researchers who touted high vitamin D doses shut out of panel
Globe and Mail - Canada
Some of the most sensational health claims ever advanced about a nutrient have recently been made for vitamin D. Not having enough of the sunshine vitamin … Good - and another good journalistic article. Again there are plenty of references to authority sites and papers for further consideration.

How much vitamin D do I need?
Munster Times - Munster,IN,USA
Meanwhile, even if the tests are accurate, there’s debate about how much vitamin D a person needs and whether supplements are worthwhile. … Good - again plenty of factual information and other things for later consideration. However, it does weaken itself at the end by trying to sell you a self diagnosis pack to get your vitamin D levels measured. So, it only just makes the ‘good and is perhaps borderline ‘not sure’.

People’s Pharmacy: Vitamin D a shining star
Houston Chronicle - United States
By JOE and TERESA GRAEDON KING FEATURES SYNDICATE Most vitamin supplements have taken a beating in the press during the past few years. … Bad - despite the headline for this article and some good vitamin D information being provided; it then goes off piste to start a Q&A session on just about anything and everything.

Get Your Vitamin D From Food or Supplements-Not Tanning Beds
Insciences Organisation - Basel,Switzerland
“Only UVB exposure will trigger the conversion of the vitamin D precursor to sun-generated vitamin D3 that impacts bone health. The problem is that UVB rays … Good - basically being an article trying to help persuade people not to use tanning beds to ‘top up’ their vitamin D, this has to be classed as good advice - ergo a good article.

The Largest Online Natural Herbal Supplements & Health Care …
BigNews.biz (press release) - Natick,MA,USA
People with Discomfort of weight bearing Joints are often deficient in vitamin D3, Joint Builder is the solution. Joint Builder on wholesale price… Bad - if we’d had an ‘appalling’ rating, this would have got it. The link really just takes you directly to a page trying to sell you health/supplement supplies without any attempt at giving you information.

A mother’s ultimate gift
Seacoastonline.com - Portsmouth,NH,USA
Vitamin D and the higher levels of iron and folic acid needed during pregnancy may be difficult to get without a supplement. An omega three fatty acid … Not sure - clearly a blog stating an opinion, but supposedly from some one who is a ‘licensed dietician’. However, no specific authority references about vitamin D?

The sun and your skin: the controversy over vitamin D
Examiner.com - USA
An additional option is to take a vitamin D supplement, either alone or included in a supplement containing calcium. The usual recommendation for daily … Not sure - a really good read, well structured and informative and again there’s plenty that you could do follow up research on - but the article doesn’t give you any clues where to look. This time the article is from someone stating they are a Doctor, who the website describes as “an Examiner from Des Moines”, but there’s nothing to back up their claim - hence the ‘not sure’ verdict.

Even a Dietitian Can Find It Hard to Craft a Diet That Covers All …
Washington Post - United States
She wasn’t offering nearly enough iron, Vitamin D or potassium … Good - coming out of the Washington Post it’d be pretty difficult not to say ‘good’. Journalistic in style, but highly readable and full of good ideas and directions to authority links and advice.

New Evidence Ties Vitamin D Deficiency to MS
Synapse - San Francisco,CA,USA
People living at latitudes greater than 40 degrees from the equator (San Francisco is on the border) should be taking vitamin D supplements. … Not sure - despite this article sitting on one of the UCSF servers and being written by someone describing themselves as the “Science editor” it lacks any real authority or cross-referencing. Is it a good article - yes, but one that fails to convince me that it is doing anything other than trying to sell vitamin D supplements.

Cochrane review finds exercise best in fall prevention
Irish Medical News - Dublin,Ireland
Other measures, including pacemakers and vitamin D supplements, might be useful in preventing certain individuals from falling, but exercise programmes that … Bad - in fairness this isn’t particularly an article about vitamin D per se, but nonetheless the way vitamin D is thrown into it is a tenuous link at best.

Strong bones
Malaysia Star - Malaysia
If one does not go outdoors, is immobile or has a deficient diet, a daily intake of 800IU of vitamin D supplement is necessary. … Not sure - a very well written and presented article by a ‘Doctor’, although whether he’s an MD is difficult to be sure. With no cross-referencing this is really in the area of ‘blog’ opinion only.

Vitamin D Pills Cut Bone Fracture Risk
WebMD - USA
Puzas, who didn’t work on the research review, says he isn’t surprised to see that vitamin D supplements helped bones, even after age 65. “Your bone health … Good - based on an article in a medical journal and it has excellent cross-references to authority sites and papers. Also, it actually contains really useful and helpful information about vitamin D.

Wellesse Receives Corporate Sponsor of the Year Award From the …
PR Newswire (press release) - New York,NY,USA
The line of liquid dietary supplements includes the nation’s best-selling liquid glucosamine, Joint Movement Glucosamine(R), liquid Vitamin D and liquid … Good - although this is clearly a promotional piece for a health supplements company, its authority and references can’t be faulted.

Veil wearers face vitamin deficiency
The Age - Melbourne,Australia
… for religious reasons, Dr Munns says these people should have their vitamin D levels checked annually and consider taking a daily vitamin supplement. … Good - this article makes a perfectly serious point and is based on an article from the Medical Journal of Australia. However, I would have been even more impressed had they added some firm facts and statistics from the journal report.

Can you buy longevity?
Examiner.com - USA
… and, if you’ve bought into the whole ’stay out of the sun’ scare tactic, you really should take an additional vitamin D supplement of at least 1000 IU … Bad - eye catching headline, but that’s all I can say that’s good about this one. Actually it is a positively dangerous article if anyone reading it thinks they can lengthen their life by taking a vitamin D tablet.

Your Health: Skin color matters in the vitamin D debate
USA Today - USA
And they are asking this intriguing question: Could varying vitamin D levels contribute to the health gap between black and white Americans? … Good - being on the USA Today site this article has links to other, associated, articles and authority sites and references. Extensive, well written and informative.

Personal Health: News and Notes
Philadelphia Inquirer - Philadelphia,PA,USA
While Vitamin D supplements have been widely touted as protective against autoimmune diseases such as multiple sclerosis, a new review of previous studies … Good - plenty of authority links and a well written and balanced piece.

Study Finds Many Children Have Vitamin D Deficiency
NY1 - NY,USA
ny1’s Health & Fitness reporter Kafi Drexel filed the following report on what parents can do to change that. Taking vitamin D supplements has become an … Good - this article isn’t trying to sell you anything and yet is highly informative, being based on a hospital study.

Vitamin D may lower asthma severity
Globe and Mail - Canada
The study supports the theory “that vitamin D insufficiency may worsen asthma severity, and we suspect that giving vitamin D supplements to asthma patients … Good - writing about the positive effects of vitamin D on asthma sufferers, this article has authority references and is quite open about the new and tentative nature of this research.

Herbs, Supplements May Fight Swine Flu Pandemic
Associated Content - Denver,CO,USA
During 2006, I noticed an extreme spike in the sales of vitamin D supplements in the store I was managing, but I was not surprised when health trends … Bad - almost so bad I don’t know what to say. Don’t see this as article about vitamin D, just one to sell you vitamins.

The Sunshine Vitamin
Manila Bulletin - Philippines
And bone loss, while taken for granted by many, is a serious health concern for both men and women. While calcium is vital for bone health, vitamin D is as … Good - with good information and based on a conference in London, UK. Describes the need for measured exposure to the sun and a good balanced diet, regarding getting natural vitamin D.

Avoid the fall and the fear
Wilton Villager - CT
Espana recommends that older adults take calcium and vitamin D supplements to increase their bone strength. People should remember that falling is not an … Bad - although the source for this article is good enough, the article really has little to do with vitamin D and is more ‘public information’ on avoiding falls.

Chlorella can Replace a Closet Full of Expensive Supplements
Natural News.com - Phoenix,AZ,USA
It is rich in vitamins A, C, E, and K, and is one of the few whole food sources of vitamin D. Chlorella has the complete vitamin B complex with more B-12 … Not sure - the problem with this article is that it is a very generic one concerning vitamins and health supplements, mentioning vitamin D merely in passing. However, it is an interesting one and does offer citations to authority sites.

What’s The Big Deal About Vitamin D Levels On Health Anyway?
CarbWire.com - USA
Nothing else changed in the diet or supplements, so this could be an emerging concern regarding Vitamin D…or not! I’m working on finding an expert who can … Bad - despite having authority references this is simply a turgid article to read. It baffles you with numbers and tries to be quasi-scientific. If you like articles with a ‘personal’ story - it might be for you, but not me.

Critically Ill Patients Lack Vitamin D
Forbes - NY,USA
In the current study, 10 patients were given vitamin D supplements, and no protective effect was found. Dr. Kirit Tolia, chief of endocrinology at … Good - lots of authority references in this article that explores the need for very ill and hospitalized people to have their vitamin d levels monitored. A bit of a specialist really, in that it won’t appeal to too many readers in general.

Real Flu Fighters
San Francisco Chronicle - CA, USA
Vitamin D is an emerging area of intense research - you can get it only from the sun, or from milk or other foods/drinks where it’s added as a supplement. … Not sure - a long article that does mention, along with several other things, that vitamin D can help to combat swine flu. Supposedly written by a medical practitioner, the article has several good and authority links. My problem is that despite what the article says I’m not convinced it’s written by a doctor.

Vitamin D Insufficiency Linked to Asthma Severity
Medscape - USA
“Studies that supplement with the currently recommended doses of vitamin D, while unlikely to raise ethical or regulatory concerns, would fail to address … Bad - you click on the link and get taken to page insisting you have to register and then log-in to see the article. Sorry, but regardless of how bona fide the article might be, if you’re not prepared to show it without pre-conditions - don’t bother advertising it.

Vitamin D often low in mothers and newborns
Reuters - USA
What’s more, prenatal vitamin D supplements do not fully protect against this deficiency, according to data released at Pediatric Academic Societies annual … Good - being a Reuter’s article this instantly commands respect and trust. It highlights a very important aspect regarding low levels of vitamin D in pregnant women affecting that of their babies.

Lack of Vitamin D in kids linked to risks later in life
Globe and Mail - Canada
There has been a flurry of medical interest in vitamin D because of tantalizing hints that it plays a far wider role in promoting good health than just … Not sure - based on a Canadian hospital study this is a well argued article regarding the potential for low levels of vitamin D in childhood leading to increased instances of cancers, MS and diabetes in later life. The problem is the research group monitored only 92 children.

Why You Should Be Getting More Sun
Forbes - NY,USA
Supplements do work, but there’s an even simpler way to get all the vitamin D you need: Spend a little time catching some rays. Exposing arms and legs to … Good - if we’d had an excellent category this would be in it. Supported by authority references and sites this is a highly informative and well written article. Put another way, if you want to know some basic but informative information on vitamin D - read this.

Dairy vs. calcium supplements for bone health
NutritionData.com - New York,NY,USA
In addition, it has been proven that calcium, vitamin D, and magnesium all play a role in each other’s absorption. If the rats were getting vitamin … Good - but boring. Basically an article telling us to drink more milk, supported by references to research from Prudhoe University. There’s nothing wrong with this article - it just doesn’t tell you that much that’s useful?

SID: Vitamin D Supplements No Help Against Melanoma
MedPage Today - Little Falls,NJ,USA
They also collected data about vitamin supplement use over the preceding 10 years. Total vitamin D intake from both dietary and supplemental sources was … Good - this article basically debunks the myth that taking a vitamin D supplement can stave off melanoma. So, in that respect it is very powerful article as its not trying sell you something on spurious evidence. However, being a ‘proper’ scientific article it is also balanced enough to say that further research/testing is still needed.

7 Low-Cost Mother’s Day Gifts Good for Mom’s Health
Health.com - New York,NY,USA
Start with a multivitamin, calcium supplements, and vitamin D supplements. “If you know your mom is trying to get more fiber, put some fiber supplements in … Bad - I’d go so far as to say I hate this article. Supposedly full of quotes form ‘medical’ experts it is, in reality, one big advert to get you to buy health related products for your mom on Mothers Day. I fond the tone of this article quite patronizing.

The 4 Best Nutrients for Better Bone Health
Alternative Health Journal - Santa Monica,California,USA
If you’re not getting enough vitamin D in your diet, consider taking a supplement. Vitamin K is another vitamin that is vital for good bone health. … Not sure - but in truth rather good! Yes, I know that’s a contradiction, let me explain. This article has no authority references etc, so by our earlier definition cannot be good. But, it is a great little article clearly setting out what you should be doing to look after your bones.

Vitamin D Aids Colon Cancer Treatment and Survival
Natural News.com - Phoenix,AZ,USA
Dr. Ng does not yet advocate vitamin D supplements as a prevention or treatment for cancer, however she says “Definitive evidence that our results are due … Good - highly reputable report and sources that indicate positive effects of high vitamin D levels and colon cancer recovery. This article also states that further research is required to make it an established clinical practice.

Got vitamin D?
Seattle Post Intelligencer - USA
Many people take vitamin D supplements as part of their health routine, but without knowing what their current levels are, they’re “shooting blind,” … Good - simply a good basic piece of information about maintaining good levels of vitamin D for healthy bones, backed up by references to established journals.

DHEA Hormone Replacement Increases Bone Density in Older Women
Newswise (press release) - USA
The first group received the DHEA supplement, vitamin D and calcium for two years. The control group received a placebo, vitamin D and calcium for the first … Good - supported by references to two university studies, this article advocates using the DHEA supplement with a vitamin D supplement to maintain healthy bones.

Vitamin D: It’s Necessary, but Getting Enough of It Is Not …
Washington Post - United States
Evidence is mounting that many Americans, even newborns whose mothers … Good - from the Washington Post and so it too has to command respect and trust. However, this is basically a re-write/re-hash of an article previously seen above.

Swine flu suspected in Sonoma County
Sonoma Index-Tribune - Sonoma,CA,USA
In no way do they represent the view of www.sonomanews.com. Have you heard of the hormone called cholecalciferol? No? It’s better known as vitamin D! … Bad - despite having an authority link to a .gov site, this is bad because really it’s an article about swineflu. Vitamin D only gets mentioned in the blogs comments, supposedly by ‘other’ readers, who then seem obsessed with it being a virtual cure for swineflu - very suspicious.

Vitamin D Deficiency Increasingly Linked to Serious Illnesses
Natural News.com - Phoenix,AZ,USA
According to the Office of Dietary Supplements, the recommended daily intake, or adequate intake (AI), of vitamin D in healthy adults under 50 is a mere 200 … Good - good references and a good article, if rather predictable. Nevertheless, the article does support the headline, even if it is stating the obvious regarding vitamin D deficiency.

Neutracuetical Company Releases Vitamin D Enhanced HeartShot …
PR Web (press release) - Ferndale,WA,USA
Dwight Lundell, MD and Chief Medical Officer for Asantae announced the release of its Vitamin D enhanced HeartShot^TM supplement for help in the prevention of … Not sure - you can’t fault the authenticity of the author or what the article says, it’s just that well - what is it saying? It reads more like the introduction to a pharmaceutical seminar than a web article.

The dirt on dietary supplements
Los Angeles Times - CA,USA
Lutein improves eye health. Calcium helps bones. Vitamin D is important for numerous body functions. And omega-3 fatty acids can boost heart health. … Good - written in the LA times with FDA material quoted in it. Unfortunately it does go a bit over the top, lumping all health and vitamin supplements together as things to be treated warily.

National Osteoporosis Awareness Month
Gant Daily - Clearfield,PA,USA
Calcium-fortified foods and calcium supplements can provide this essential mineral for those who cannot or will not consume dairy products. Vitamin D is … Not sure - could be harsh and this article could well be worth a good. Written apparently by medical practitioners it sets out the basics of good bone health. Unfortunately it doesn’t tell us anything about the headline itself?

Millions face serious health risks over lack of vitamin D in diets
Daily Mail - UK
The report, published in the Journal of the British Nutrition Foundation and funded by the Health Supplements Information Service, shows that in the UK 71 … Good - the UK paper it is taken from is known for being rather sensationalistic in its reporting. However, this article, backed up by good authorities makes some interesting points about obesity and vitamin D retention and the effective use of vitamin D by our bodies.

Schoolboy petitions msps over vitamin D link to MS
Times Online - UK
… apparently initiated by a lack of vitamin D. The World Health Organisation said that vitamin D supplements should be tested in Scotland “sooner rather … Good - this article informs us about levels of vitamin D and the illness commonly referred to as MS. Coming from the Times of London, with WHO and Oxford University authority citations it can’t really be faulted.

Troubling record trails doctor treating autism
Chicago Tribune - United States
And earlier this year, reviewing the lab results of an autistic patient with her family, he suggested she take a vitamin D3 supplement, which he happened to … Good - no getting away from the standard of writing or the authority with which this is written. This very interesting article is about a doctor, who advocates using vitamin D as a ‘treatment’ for autism. The article doesn’t pull any punches - a good read indeed.

In avoiding sun, you might be missing vitamin D
Hutchinson News - Hutchinson,KS,USA
However, it is generally safe to take a vitamin D supplement. I often recommend 1000 to 2000 international units of vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol) each day … Not sure - a good read, supposedly written by a doctor, but no proof or other supportive material readily viewable. Having said that, like many other articles covered here, it is a good one to read for information about taking vitamin D supplements.

Vitamin D May Help Keep Aging at Bay
Forbes - NY,USA
If vitamin D supplements can help reduce the effects of aging on the brain, the health implications could be significant because many people, … Good - based on an article in a reputable journal and university research this meets all the criteria for being classed as good. Mainly discusses vitamin D helping to ward off brain degeneration, I guess you can take your pick between vitamin D and caffeine on this one.

Tips for a healthy summer
Richmond Times Dispatch - Richmond,VA,USA
The American Academy of Dermatology, concerned about skin cancer, urges folks to get the vitamin D they need from food and vitamin supplements and not sun … Bad - merely mentions vitamin D in passing, in an article more about taking care of yourself during the summer months.

Low Vitamin D Levels May Initiate Cancer Development
Atlanta Journal Constitution - GA, USA
He noted that appropriate vitamin D levels can be restored and maintained through diet and supplements. More research into the link between vitamin D and … Good - but that’s not to say I like this article. Plenty of authority support, but the angle it takes ‘blaming low vitamin D levels for the development of some cancers. If you read the article low levels of vitamin D are just one of many contributing factors.

Vital Choice Vitamin D is First Supplement to Provide the News …
Emediawire (press release) - Ferndale,WA,USA
The fast-growing evidence behind Dr. Weil’s comments affirms vitamin D as a uniquely powerful health-promoter, and prompted the American Public Health … Good - but not necessarily a great article. Has all the right authority links and gets across the message about having good levels of vitamin D. But it is really just an advert for one vitamin D product.

Does vitamin D help prevent breast cancer?
WPTV - West Palm Beach,FL,USA
“The women’s health initiative was a large study of 36000 women who were randomly assigned treatment to calcium with vitamin d supplements or a placebo … Good - this article is based on the findings of a large group study that would seem to establish a reduced risk of breast cancer in women maintaining high levels of vitamin D.

May is osteoporosis prevention month
Morganton News Herald - Morganton,NC,USA
Vitamin D is very important and, if taken with calcium, it helps the body absorb the calcium supplement, she added. Increasing your dairy intake along with … Not sure - on the face of it this seems an OK story, based on information from a medical center clearly keen to get women in their for bone scans. However, the writing has some appalling grammar in it, making me wonder who exactly wrote this piece?

Is calcium supplementation effective?
Food Consumer - Lisle,IL,USA
Wednesday May 27, 2009 (foodconsumer.org) — For the last five years, there has been some controversy over whether or not calcium and vitamin D supplements … Good - not necessarily one that the vitamin D lobbyists would want to read, but a good one. Basically, backed up with research, it says that a well balanced diet and bone strengthening exercises are all that many women need to do to protect their bones.

Vitamin D Gaining Ground as Protection Against Heart Disease, Cancer
Alternative Health Journal - Santa Monica,California,USA
Fill out your vitamin D intake with a supplement, keeping in mind the researchers in the know are not hesitant to reach 1200 IU per day. … Bad - why, because this is a re-write of re-writes etc. Albeit based on perfectly reasonable sources, it simply doesn’t say anything new or differently to hundreds of other articles on vitamin D. If there’s nothing new to say - do we really need the same old stuff repeating?

Is vitamin D the new wonder supplement?
Times Online - UK
There is increasing evidence that if we do just that our health may suffer in other ways. The reason is vitamin D, an essential nutrient almost wholly … Good - if ever you were in doubt as to the possible benefits of taking vitamin D, then read this. The paper it’s from is authority enough, let alone the references it cites.

Low vitamin D levels may impair thinking
Reuters - USA
NEW YORK (Reuters Health) - New research suggests that low vitamin D levels in the body are associated with thinking or “cognitive” impairments in older men … Good - not a fantastically revealing article of anything new, but it is from Reuters so you can read it with 100% confidence.

Vitamin D deficiency linked to prenatal infection
Scripps News - Washington,DC,USA
Future Pitt studies, she said, will help determine whether vitamin D supplements can reduce infant mortality and other health problems affecting mothers and … Good - no doubting the authority of this article, which is an interesting one for women considering pregnancy.

Sport Specific Performance selects The Media Group to handle PR
WorldGolf.com - Flagstaff,AZ,USA
“We are confident that there is no better dietary supplement on the market for optimal health and features exclusively designed to increase your performance … Bad - related authority links in this article are weak and not in abundance. It is clearly an article trying to persuade sportspeople to take vitamins and supplements in general.

Vitamin D a hero?
Daily Comet - Thibodaux,LA,USA
Adequate vitamin D levels are best achieved with a combination of diet (consumption of oily fish), supplements and short intervals of 10 to 15 minutes a day … Bad - words almost fail me on this one. Starts off saying how wonderful vitamin D could be in combating all manner of ills - only to finish with almost glee that the author can’t wait to be able to disprove all the good things about vitamin D. Very perplexing.

Be Sun Smart This Summer and Protect Your Skin
HealthNewsDigest.com - New York,NY,USA
Get vitamin D safely through a healthy diet that includes vitamin supplements. Don’t seek the sun. Avoid tanning beds. Ultraviolet light from the sun and … Good - although it only mentions taking vitamin d as a supplement, it is stated in the context of protecting yourself from too much harmful UV sunlight.

Vitamin D: The Sports Vitamin? By: Mirabai Holland
Healthy Wealthy n Wise - Kearneysville,WV,USA
Vitamin D2 -the kind that’s found in fortified food and supplements and Vitamin D3 the kind you absorb from sunlight. Conventional wisdom was that Vitamin … Bad - no supporting authorities, otherwise it’s not too bad as a pretty basic vitamin D article.

Vitamin D and Mental Health
PsychCentral.com - Boston,MA,USA
In all this time, I have not seen one nutritional supplement that has the power to affect human health as much as vitamin D. This is because Vitamin D is … Good - despite not exactly being strong on authority links, this is an interesting article to read for anyone wanting information about vitamin D and mental faculties. However, it does need a health warning - in that it is clearly a blog in a site whose priority is to sell health supplements.

Potential Role of Vitamin D in Multiple Sclerosis
OUPblog - New York,New York,USA
Vitamin D supplements are appropriate to restore their levels to within normal range. This should be considered a general medical recommendation simply to … Not sure - supposedly based on a book written by a doctor, this one really does blatantly set out to sell you vitamin D tablets to combat MS. Oh yes, the reference to OUP has nothing to do with ‘the’ Oxford University Press.

High doses of vitamin D could cut relapse rate among MS sufferers
Times Online - UK
Fears that not enough is known about the possible side effects of vitamin D supplements were countered by evidence presented at the annual meeting of the … Good - great source and lots of authority references. Although another article on vitamin D and MS, this one actually has something to say about current research in to it.

How avoiding the sun to protect against skin cancer has left …
Daily Mail - UK
… my vitamin D levels were so low I was immediately called back in for an intramuscular injection and prescribed a daily calcium/vitamin D supplement. … Good - but this is a very journalistic ‘tabloid’ type of tale about someone’s journey finding out about osteoporosis. Thin on authority references, but the source is a ‘proper’ journalistic one.

Study: Soaking Up Rays May Produce Bigger Babies
Miller-McCune.com - Santa Barbara,CA,USA
Instead, Tobias was quoted in a press release, “Pregnant women might consider talking to their doctor about taking vitamin D supplements, particularly if … Good - another article regarding pregnancy and vitamin D levels, this time that high vitamin D in the mother means a bigger and heavier baby. All backed up with good authorities, apparently it’s as much to do with summer babies and the sun, meaning winter pregnancies should take a vitamin D supplement.

Shining some light on tanning bed controversy
Pocono Record - Stroudsburg,PA,USA
“What you get from the sun or tanning bed, you can’t get from a vitamin D supplement.” Advanced Dermatology Milford is at 303 W. Harford St., Milford. … Bad - no true authority references, only ones to non-medical agencies. Even worse, this one actually promotes using sun tanning beds as a way to get your vitamin D. Not a good idea at all!

Lack of Vitamin D Linked to Alzheimer’s and Vascular Dementia
Natural News.com - Phoenix,AZ,USA
(naturalnews) Researchers have found that low serum levels of vitamin D are associated with an increased risk for host of health problems ranging from … Good - well written with appropriate authority references. But, personally I don’t like it. The inference here is that Alzheimer’s and dementia awaits anyone who lets their vitamin D levels slip.

Home >> Articles >> Stop Taking Dangerous Drugs and Learn The …
Alternative Health Journal - Santa Monica,California,USA
You should also take a probiotic supplement to ensure proper digestion. Vitamin D is essential in many health areas, and your digestion is no different. … Bad - utterly devoid of expert/authority links. However, it does raise a new point regarding vitamin D - that of its importance to the digestive system.

A balance of nutrients essential to physical and mental health
Canada.com - Don Mills,Ontario,Canada
Vitamin D made it to the top in 2007 after the Canada Food Guide began recommending a daily supplement of 400 international units for people over age 50. … Bad - which is unfortunate as this is actually quite a good and well written article. Unfortunately the authority/medical references just aren’t good enough. Having said that, it does have some really useful information in it.

Vitamin D deficiency related to many diseases
fwdailynews.com - Kendallville,IN,USA
Vitamin D supplements are relatively safe. To reach vitamin D toxicity, the serum level needs to be at 150 ng/mL or above. This serum level would likely … Not sure - written by a doctor, but without any cross-referencing to other sources. A good basic introduction to vitamin D and health related issues.

HEALTH OPTIONS Vitamin D can protect against many diseases
Honolulu Star-Bulletin - Honolulu,HI,USA
So, those following the advice of most dermatologists need to obtain vitamin D from foods and supplements. Q: How much vitamin D is best for good health? … Not sure - a nice article, but the medical authority behind the answers isn’t strong. I do like the Q & A format, an especially refreshing change to the ones that simply set out to lecture you.

While the Dangers of Sun Exposure are Widely Understood Americans …
PR Newswire (press release) - New York,NY,USA
Registered Dietitian Elizabeth Somer explains, “In addition to dietary sources, a supplement with vitamin D, such as VIACTIV(R) Calcium Soft Chews, … Not sure - if you want an article trying to sell you a sun block, read it. However, if you want information about the wider benefits of vitamin D - don’t bother.

MS march to shine light on need for vitamin supplement
Scotsman - United Kingdom
By Adam Morris CAMPAIGNERS were set to go on the march in Edinburgh today calling for the widespread introduction of a vitamin D supplement in a move they … Good - although this is really a news story about folk in Scotland wanting to raise the profile of vitamin D with the Scottish government and it lacks any medical authority, it is from a reliable source. It also serves to highlight the power of all the research, past and future, into this vitamin.

The Skin Cancer Foundation revises daily intake for vitamin D
Othello Outlook - Othello,WA,USA
There are three sources of vitamin D: exposure to UVB radiation, certain foods and vitamin D supplements. Ultraviolet radiation (UV) from the sun and … Good - although written by a doctor there is only just enough to accept this in the good category. However, it does give excellent, but easy to read, information on the role of the sun’s UV light and our bodies producing vitamin D.

Vitamin D linked to successful weight loss
Examiner.com - USA
Future studies will look at whether supplementing with Vitamin D can enhance weight loss. While taking a Vitamin D supplement is not going to magically melt … Bad - despite being naturally skeptical about ‘Enquirer’ articles, this one really does take the biscuit. Based on a comment, rather than a report, that obese people have vitamin D deficiencies, surprise considering their diets - not, it infers that vitamin D could be seen as a slimming aid!

Low Vitamin D Linked to Pregnancy Infection
Medfinds - Seattle,WA,USA
Consider having your vitamin D levels checked. If your levels are low, your health care practitioner can recommend a vitamin D supplement. … Not sure - I’m simply not sure as to the medical veracity of the references. However, it is a well written piece and informative. Was June 2009 national bacterial vaginosis month? The number of articles on vitamin D and BV in this month would make it seem so.

Vitamin D deficiency afflicts high percentage of population
Lawrence Journal World - Lawrence,KS,USA
“I don’t generally recommend a lot of vitamin supplements,” he said. “But, to my knowledge, there has been nothing negative about taking vitamin D for … Good - simply another good all round vitamin D article.

How shunning the sun could put your health at risk
Monsters and Critics.com - USA
One solution to the deficiency problem is the vitamin D supplement - but how much can we safely take without overdosing and risking liver damage? … Good -this one makes the point that it’s not just a US problem, as reportedly up to 60% of the Hong Kong population might be vitamin D deficient because of deliberately keeping out of the sun.

Brigham study to test vitamin D, fish oil supplements
Boston Globe - United States
“It would be wonderful if something as simple as a vitamin D pill could narrow that health gap.” Women over 65 and men over 60 with no history of cancer or … Good - no doubting the strength of the authority links and references here. If you’re in the Boston area this is a chance to sign up for a study looking into vitamin D levels and the health of women, particularly African-Americans.

Vitamin D prevents falls, helps improve strength
Examiner.com - USA
Before you take vitamin D supplements, you should consult with a knowledgeable health-care provider. If he or she suspects you have a vitamin D deficiency, … Bad - the whole premise of this article is spurious. Vitamin D prevents falls it announces, based on records of those attending hospitals after falls. Being from the Enquirer they never thought people with high vitamin D may well fall, just not need to go to hospital afterwards for treatment!

You don’t need to take your vitamin D with foods that contain fat
Chicago Daily Herald - Chicago,IL,USA
But when it comes to vitamin D, getting it from fortified cereal and skim milk, from fortified juice, or even from a supplement not consumed with food … Bad - this is really a diet article rather than a vitamin and health supplements one.

Utah is a risk for a vitamin D deficiency
Examiner.com - USA
… you can maintain a health vitamin D level through modest sun exposure, eating vitamin D rich foods and by taking a vitamin D supplement. Holick MF. … Bad - whilst the vitamin D information is OK - why pick on Utah? I don’t know - those pesky Examiner reporters!

Huge Vitamin D study planned
Private MD - Brentwood,TN,USA
“We’re hoping to see a result during the trial, that we won’t have to wait five years” to find out if supplements help, Manson said. Vitamin D is good … Not sure - the article announces a national study into vitamin D levels and general health things like diabetes, heart disease and cancers. Which is, of course, good. The problem is it only hints that this study will be based in Boston, but could be anywhere. Which means it might be the same one as described above about African-Americans.

Jarrow Formulas, Inc. to Unveil Children’s Natural Health Products …
PR Web (press release) - Ferndale,WA,USA
Yum-Yum D3^TM Liquid delivers 200 IU of vitamin D3 per drop. Vitamin D3 is essential for children in promoting healthy bones, teeth, brain and immune system. … Bad - so bad I nearly gave it a good. Almost an unashamed advert for children’s vitamin D supplements.

Vitamin D Testing: What the Government Giveth, It Taketh Away
DARKDaily.com - Laboratory News - Spicewood,Texas,USA
With another hand, the federally-funded National Institutes of Health (NIH) is funding a large, multi-year study to assess the effect Vitamin D supplements … Good - worthy of excellent. Authority links abound in this informative article about vitamin D from oily fish and supplements.

UW Research Finds Athlete Vitamin D Levels Wobbly; General Public …
University of Wyoming News - Laramie,WY,USA
“We need to take supplements or get it from our diet.” Low vitamin D levels affect calcium absorption, which affects bone health and strength. … Good - simply a good informative article on vitamin d from a University website.

Delicious D’s, Ways to Get More Vitamin D in Your Diet
EmpowHer - Phoenix,AZ,USA
Fish has the best bang for your buck when it comes to vitamin D. According to the National Institutes of Health Office of Dietary Supplements, … Bad - indeed horribly bad, unless you’re looking for recipes.

Vitamin D and Fish Oil - Time to Put Up or Shut Up
Singularity Hub - Palo Alto,CA,USA
Starting in January of next year, they will recruit men over the age of 65 and women over 60 to take daily supplements and report on their health. … Good - very well written article that is again referring to the upcoming national study into vitamin D levels and the nation’s health.
Vitamin D Essential for Body
KTEN - Denison,TX,USA
Larry and Julie Mayo say the liquid Vitamin D supplement is best absorbed by your body and it can be found at any local health food store. … Bad - I suppose it’s a nice enough and chatty article, but the medical support to it is weak at best.
Vitamin D offers many health benefits
Herald Times Reporter - Manitowoc,WI,USA
Fatty fish such as mackerel, salmon and tuna also have vitamin D. However, we can also get vitamin D through supplements. Our skin makes vitamin D from the … Bad - which is a shame really as this is a great little article regarding vitamin D basics. But, there’s no authority links or references.

Big US study will test vitamin D, fish oil
Tehran Times - Iran
Two of the most popular and promising dietary supplements - vitamin D and fish oil - will be tested in a large, government-sponsored study to see whether … Good - this article, out of Iran, actually and ironically explains fully who’s behind the impending national vitamin D study, mentioned in previously reviewed articles here.

New study to explore vitamin D deficiency in blacks
San Jose Mercury News - CA, USA
The study, which begins in January 2010, will be the largest yet directly assessing the health effects of these supplements. Researchers will be enrolling … Good - another informative article about the national study into vitamin D levels, with special reference to African-Americans.

Sun Suggestions From the Skin Cancer Foundation
The Epoch Times - New York,NY,USA
While The Skin Cancer Foundation is clearly aware of the fact that vitamin D is important, it recommends that we get this through diet and supplements. … Bad - this is OK as a basic vitamin D article and it does start off being quite open that it’s penned from another source. Unfortunately it looks like it’s just been copy/pasted as there’s some rather obvious ‘code’ included in it.

The You Docs Tip of the Day: The sun isn’t always the enemy of health
IdahoStatesman.com - ID,USA
Or, use sunscreen and rely on vitamin D supplements. Take 1000 IU of D-3 every day if you’re under age 60; and 1200 IU a day if you’re over 60. … Bad - the initial message regarding not using sun-beds or doing too much sunbathing is good, the rest is OK - but there’s no authority references at all.

While the sun shines: Debating D: Study sees ‘growing epidemic’ of …
Modern Medicine - Woodcliff Lake,NJ,USA
“Vitamin D (should) be obtained through a healthy diet and vitamin supplements and not through unprotected ultraviolet exposure,” says American Academy of … Good - but only because it has plenty of authority behind it. Otherwise there’s nothing to make this article stand out form the hundreds/thousands of other ones on vitamin D.

Healthy ways to start your day
Examiner.com - USA
According to the Harvard School of Public Health, a multi-vitamin and a Vitamin D supplement is a great way to make sure you’re getting all the nutrients … Not sure - definitely not bad, as it does have medical references. But it is really more a lifestyle article that mentions vitamin D in passing.

These women are fighting heart disease - are you?
Arizona Republic - Phoenix,AZ,USA
Include omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin D in food and supplement form. • Exercise. Any is good, including walking, dancing, swimming, even playing with your … Good - excellent article about vitamin D levels and the incidence of heart disease in women.

Summary.

We’d be interested to hear from you exactly how much you agree with our thoughts and comments about vitamin D articles on the internet. just in case you’re wondering of the 100 articles listed here: 53% were awarded a ‘Good’ category and only 28% were classed as ‘Bad’, the rest being ‘Not sure’. So, overall and in our opinion the majority of articles about vitamin D on the internet are good, reliable and informative; which should be quite reassuring - but remember to look out for good references in anything you read about vitamin D and your health.