Research has proven there is a clear link between vitamin D blood levels and several health related conditions. Unfortunately this research has failed to discover a clear understanding of what is or isn’t the optimal level of vitamin D necessary to achieve and retain good health. A recent study published in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism (December 2010), measured plasma levels of vitamin D and assessed frailty status in 4551 elderly women approximately 69 years of age. Results of testing showed vitamin D levels between 20 ng/ml – 30 ng/ml appeared to provide optimal protection against the development of frailty. Levels below or above this range were associated with an increased risk for frailty, with the lowest levels offering the greatest risk. Researchers pointed out that the number of women whose vitamin D status exceeded 30 ng/ml was relatively small and so further research is necessary to give a better understanding of how higher vitamin D levels affect the body.
To read more on this study:
http://jcem.endojournals.org/cgi/content/abstract/95/12/5266