Originally published September 28 2005
Research shows health may increase during daylight saving time
by Mike Adams, the Health Ranger, NaturalNews Editor
The impending extension of daylight saving time in 2007 means a greater exposure to "the sunshine vitamin," vitamin D, for most people, which Science Daily reports means that people stand to have healthier teeth and bones from vitamin D exposure.
"Numerous studies indicate that vitamin D and calcium deficiencies result in bone loss and increased inflammation.
Inflammation is a well recognized symptom of periodontal diseases, which is why it has been suggested that calcium and vitamin D deficiency may be a risk factor for periodontal diseases."
According to the National Institutes of Health, season, geographic latitude, time of day, cloud cover, smog and sunscreen affect ultraviolet ray exposure and vitamin D synthesis.
Ten to 15 minutes of sun exposure at least two times per week to the face, arms, hands or back is usually sufficient to provide adequate vitamin D. People who live in an area with limited sun exposure may want to eat foods fortified with vitamin D such as milk, eggs, sardines and tuna fish.
"According to the American Academy of Dermatology, there is no such thing as a total UV block.
Even the most effective sunscreens currently on the market let through enough UV to allow for adequate vitamin D formation."
Periodontal diseases are bacterial infections that, if left untreated, may cause damage to the bone and even tooth loss.
A number of infectious diseases have been linked with low levels of vitamin D, and it has been demonstrated that vitamin D can suppress proinflammatory cytokine production.
"Periodontal disease increases the production of cytokines, but it has been demonstrated that vitamin D can suppress cytokine production, and possibly decrease the risk of periodontal disease," explains Hildebolt.
"Further research is needed to define the health risks associated with inadequate levels of vitamin D and calcium intake and how they affect periodontal diseases," said Iacono.
"Until we have further information, it is prudent for patients to talk to their healthcare providers about the possibility of taking vitamin D and calcium supplements."
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