Vitamin D is one of those new trends in prescribed supplements these days. Doctors are actively checking for Vitamin D in blood tests and low levels of Vitamin D have been connected with depression, multiple sclerosis, some cancers, increased risk of asthma and tuberculosis. Very low levels of Vitamin D will cause rickets and bone thinning. But what is Vitamin D? Well, like Vitamin B, Vitamin D is actually a group of different molecular compounds – fat-soluble secosteroids in their case. Now you’ve probably heard how you can get Vitamin D from the sun, but out of the four Vitamin D-s, only D3 – or Cholecalicferol – is made in your skin by UV radiation reacting with cholesterol in the epidermis.  The other common Vitamin D – D2 (Ergocalciferol) comes from mushrooms and algae and the two are not necessarily interchangeable. The most important role for Vitamin D in the body is for the intestinal absorption of calcium and phosphate – the reason why it’s so closely connected with bone wastage – however in recent years Vitamin D has risen to prominence for its treatment of depression. Several scientific studies have found a possible connection between low levels of Vitamin D and ‘the blues’ that coincide with little or no sun during the winter months in the Northern Hemisphere. However, as yet, this connection remains clinically unproven.

But what’s the other end of the spectrum for this wonder vitamin? Too much Vitamin D can be toxic – and in extreme cases can lead to renal failure. Of course standing in the sun or taking your prescribed supplement isn’t going to do this, but if a lack of Vitamin D can cause depression, it could be surmised too much might also change our emotional state. Most of us living in the tropics have probably experienced ‘Mango Madness’ – those out-of-character temper tantrums we sometimes have when we’re ‘hot and bothered’ during summer. This volatility may be caused just by the impact of heat on the brain – however since it is more commonly noted among those toiling in the tropical sun, this summer reaction may actually be the result of excess Vitamin D. However, like its connection to depression, this assertion is not clinically proven. But try this as a little experiment – if you have noticed you are more aggressive during the summer, try thoroughly washing your exposed skin with soap. The Vitamin D forming in your skin can take 48-hours to enter the bloodstream, so if you’re already cranky, you probably don’t need any more. And while I’m not going to tell you to stop taking a prescribed supplement, if you notice you are suffering out-of-character aggression after starting a course of Vitamin D tablets, be aware the sudden ingestion of the supplement might be the cause.

Are you in need of immediate pain relief?

To contact us immediately about a Bowen Therapy session tailored specifically for you.

Book an appointment on 07 4728 8800, via email at office@settershealthcentre.com.au or on our online appointment form.

The most LIKES and SHARES – Get it out there Townsville – be rewarded with a free Bowen Therapy consultation for the most LIKES and SHARES of Setter’s Health Centre’s posts on FACEBOOK during March 2013

****

What is Bowen Therapy?

The Gentle Healing Technique

Bowen Therapeutic Technique (Bowen Therapy) is a dynamic system of muscle and connective tissue therapy that encourages the body to right itself. This technique involves a gentle roll over the muscle. By using a set system of these small moves from the base of the neck to the tips of the toes, the therapist stimulates the body’s innate healing system to realign and re-balance.

Bowen Therapeutic Technique (Bowen Therapy) is completely safe for the newborn baby to the frail and elderly. It is gentle, fast and an effective way to treat health concerns from sporting injuries to pain, stress and discomfort. Bowen Therapy stimulates the patient’s musculoskeletal system into realigning itself.

The beauty of Bowen Therapy is that it will not interfere and works well with all medication and/or dietary supplements and is gentle but powerful. A treatment takes about one hour.