SHARING / REPOSTING GUIDELINES: We're very happy to have posts/articles shared as direct links.
However, if you are replicating and re-posting information from this website or our posts, Abbey requests that you:
A) Only ever share articles in part (not in full). (eg. You can lift a paragraph as a way of introducing your readers to the topic) B) Be sure to always provide a direct link/URL back to the full original article here on the MyHealingCommunity.com website. Thanks in advance for your co-operation when sharing and re-posting any and all information that appears on this website.
Vitamin D; A Powerful Ally for Cancer Patients
Introduction
Vitamin D has become crucial in cancer care and overall immune support. This comprehensive guide explores the latest research on vitamin D's role in cancer immunity, treatment interactions, and immune system enhancement, offering practical insights for both patients and practitioners. I have delved into the intricate pathway from vitamin D to cancer immunity via the gut microbiome, compared the effectiveness of vitamin D3 versus D2, and examined potential drug interactions between vitamin D and various cancer treatments.
My exploration continues with an overview of vitamin D research across different cancers, including ovarian, pancreatic, colorectal, breast, melanoma, hematological, and prostate cancers. I have also discussed the impact of vitamin D on the mental health of people living with cancer and explored how genetic factors, particularly single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), can influence vitamin D metabolism and its effects on cancer immunity.
Finally, I have provided practical strategies for optimizing vitamin D levels, including personalized supplementation approaches, timing and absorption considerations, and the importance of regular monitoring. I have concluded with a discussion on vitamin D's role in COVID-19 prevention and treatment, dosing protocols and safety considerations, especially for cancer patients.
This mega-guide aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of vitamin D's multifaceted role in cancer care and immune support, empowering people living with cancer with more knowledge to make informed decisions about their health and treatment strategies.
The Pathway from Vitamin D to Cancer Immunity via the Gut Microbiome
The pathway starts with Vitamin D Intake and Absorption: The process begins with vitamin D intake through diet, supplements, or sunlight exposure. Once absorbed, vitamin D is metabolised in the liver and kidneys to its active form, 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3. Vitamin D regulates microbiome-dependent cancer immunity - PMC
The pathway continues
Interaction with Intestinal Epithelial Cells: The active form of vitamin D interacts with vitamin D receptors (VDRs) in intestinal epithelial cells, triggering changes in gene expression within these cells. Vitamin D regulates microbiome-dependent cancer immunity - PMC
Modulation of the Gut Microbiome: The altered gene expression in intestinal epithelial cells leads to changes in the gut environment, affecting the composition of the gut microbiome. The study found that increased vitamin D levels promote the growth of beneficial bacteria. Vitamin D influences gut bacteria to help fight cancer - Earth.com
Bacterial Metabolite Production: These beneficial bacteria produce specific metabolites that have immunomodulatory effects. One key metabolite is inosine, which is crucial in enhancing anti-tumor immune responses.
Vitamin D regulates microbiome-dependent cancer immunity | Science
Enhancement of T Cell Function: Bacterial metabolites, especially inosine, interact with T cells in the gut and throughout the body. This interaction enhances T cells' function, particularly their ability to recognise and attack cancer cells.
Vitamin D Acts via the Microbiome to Boost Cancer Immunity | The Scientist Magazine®
Improved Cancer Immunity
The enhanced T cell function leads to improved overall cancer immunity. This includes:
Better recognition of cancer cells by the immune system. Increased effectiveness of immune cells in attacking tumours. Improved responses to cancer immunotherapies, such as checkpoint inhibitors.
Links to read more: Can Vitamin D Improve Cancer Immunotherapy? and
Vitamin D may improve gut health, aid cancer immunotherapy treatments
Systemic Effects: While the process begins in the gut, the effects are systemic. The enhanced immune function can impact tumours throughout the body, not just the intestinal tract. Vitamin D boosts cancer immunity by altering gut bacteria.
The Cool Vit D Immunity Feedback Loop:
Interestingly, this study also suggests a bidirectional relationship. The immune system can influence the gut microbiome, affecting vitamin D metabolism, creating a complex and very valuable feedback loop. The immune cells can produce and respond to vitamin D, creating localized effects that can further influence this cycle. This intricate interplay suggests that interventions targeting any part of this loop - vitamin D supplementation, probiotic use, or immunotherapy - could have far-reaching effects on the entire system, potentially enhancing cancer treatment outcomes.
The Role of Microbiota-Derived Vitamins in Immune Homeostasis and Enhancing Cancer Immunotherapy - PMC.
This series of research articles above on the vitamin D metabolic pathway and the feedback loop demonstrates the intricate relationship between nutrition, vitamin D, the gut microbiome, and the immune system in cancer immunity. It highlights the potential for dietary interventions to enhance cancer treatment and prevention strategies, particularly in combination with immunotherapies. A huge thanks to Esther Burns, whose message to me about this Vitamin D metabolic pathway got me started with the inspiration to dive further into Vitamin D for my own immune response after my tick bite earlier this week. I’ve learnt so much and will try to be succinct in my sharing.
Key points regarding vitamin D3 versus D2:
- Source of Vit D: Vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol) comes from animal sources and is produced in human skin when exposed to sunlight.
Vitamin D2 (ergocalciferol) comes from plant sources like mushrooms and yeast.
- Effectiveness: Most studies show that vitamin D3 is more effective than D2 at raising and maintaining blood levels of 25-hydroxyvitamin D, the main circulating form of vitamin D. Vitamin D3 appears to yield higher levels of calcifediol (25-hydroxyvitamin D) compared to an equal amount of D2.
- Potency and duration: Vitamin D3 is considered more potent and longer-lasting than D2. Some studies suggest D3 is nearly twice as effective as D2 at raising vitamin D levels.
- Stability: Vitamin D3 may be more stable during storage than D2, which is more sensitive to humidity and temperature fluctuations.
- Bioavailability: Vitamin D3 is generally considered more bioavailable than D2, meaning it's more easily absorbed and utilised by the body.
- Supplementation: Due to its higher effectiveness, vitamin D3 is often recommended over D2 for supplementation. However, D2 is still used in some fortified foods and supplements, especially for vegans/vegetarians.
- Metabolism: Both forms are converted to 25-hydroxyvitamin D in the liver, but D3 may be converted more efficiently.
While both forms can help meet vitamin D requirements, the evidence suggests that vitamin D3 is generally superior to D2 in potency, effectiveness, and maintaining vitamin D levels in the body.
Interactions: Vitamin D and Cancer Treatments
Chemotherapy Agents and Vitamin D
- Taxanes (e.g., paclitaxel, docetaxel): Title: "Vitamin D enhances the efficacy of docetaxel and mitigates its toxicity in human and mouse models of metastatic prostate cancer” https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6522366/ Type of Evidence: Human and mouse studies. Key Finding: Vitamin D may enhance the effectiveness of taxanes while potentially reducing their side effects.
- Platinum-based drugs (e.g., cisplatin) Title: "Vitamin D and cisplatin synergistically suppress human ovarian cancer growth and metastasis" https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6232953/ Type of Evidence: Human cell lines and mouse studies Key Finding: Vitamin D might help protect against nephrotoxicity, a common side effect of these medications.
Hormone Therapies and Vitamin D
- Aromatase inhibitors: Title: "Vitamin D supplementation and its influence on musculoskeletal symptoms and bone mineral density in women on aromatase inhibitors for breast cancer. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5759346/ Type of Evidence: Human clinical trial Key Finding: Vitamin D supplementation may help mitigate bone loss associated with these drugs in breast cancer treatment.
- Androgen deprivation therapy: Title: "Vitamin D deficiency in patients with prostate cancer receiving or not receiving androgen deprivation therapy" https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6206382/ Type of Evidence: Human observational study. Key Finding: Vitamin D can support bone health in prostate cancer patients undergoing this treatment.
Targeted Therapies and Vitamin D
- EGFR inhibitors: Title: "Vitamin D enhances erlotinib-induced cancer cell death and prevents erlotinib resistance" https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5343799/ Type of Evidence: Human cell lines and mouse studies. Key Finding: Vitamin D may enhance the anti-tumour effects of these drugs in specific cancer types.
- mTOR inhibitors: Title: "Vitamin D and mTOR signalling in cancer" (review) Link: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6164170/ Type of Evidence: Review of cell and animal studies: Key Finding: Caution is advised, as vitamin D might interfere with the effectiveness of these medications.
Immunotherapies and Vitamin D
- Checkpoint inhibitors: Title: "Vitamin D supplementation enhances the response to PD-1 blockade in a mouse model of melanoma" https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7116809/ Type of Evidence: Mouse studies. Key Finding: Emerging research suggests vitamin D may enhance the efficacy of these treatments, but more studies are needed.
It's important to note that while these studies provide valuable insights, the interactions between vitamin D and cancer treatments can be complex and may vary depending on individual factors. Always consult an oncologist before making any changes to vitamin D supplements during cancer treatment.
Vitamin D Research Pointers by Cancer Type
Ovarian Cancer Vitamin D Research
Title: "Association of vitamin D levels and risk of ovarian cancer: a Mendelian randomisation study" Link: https://academic.oup.com/ije/article/45/5/1619/2450934 Type of Evidence: Mendelian randomisation study. Key Findings: Lower circulating vitamin D levels were associated with an increased risk of ovarian cancer (OR = 1.27, 95% CI: 1.06–1.51). The association was stronger for high-grade serous ovarian cancer (OR = 1.54, 95% CI: 1.19–2.01).
And another Ovarian Cancer study
Title: "Vitamin D status during and after treatment and ovarian cancer survival" Link: https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10552023017570. Type of Evidence: Prospective cohort study. Key Findings: Higher 25(OH)D concentrations during treatment were associated with better ovarian cancer-specific survival (HR = 0.80, 95% CI: 0.67–0.95 per 20 nmol/L increase). No significant association was found between posttreatment 25(OH)D concentrations and survival.
Pancreatic Cancer Vitamin D Research
Title: "Vitamin D: Promises on the Horizon and Challenges Ahead for Fighting Pancreatic Cancer"
Link: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8198176/
Type of Evidence: Review of multiple studies, including RCTs
Key Findings: Results from observational studies and RCTs are inconsistent regarding vitamin D status and pancreatic cancer risk. The VITAL trial showed that vitamin D supplementation did not lower the incidence of invasive cancer but reduced the incidence of advanced (metastatic or fatal) cancer.
Colorectal Cancer Vitamin D Research
Title: "Effect of Vitamin D3 Supplements on Development of Advanced Cancer"
Link: https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamanetworkopen/fullarticle/2773074
Type of Evidence: Randomized controlled trial (VITAL trial)
Key Findings: Vitamin D3 supplementation (2000 IU/day) did not significantly reduce the incidence of invasive colorectal cancer. However, it did reduce the incidence of advanced (metastatic or fatal) cancers overall.
Breast Cancer Vitamin D Research
Title: "Vitamin D and Breast Cancer: Latest Evidence and Future Steps"
Link: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5802611/
Type of Evidence: Review of observational and interventional studies
Key Findings: Most studies support an inverse association between vitamin D levels and breast cancer risk. Vitamin D deficiency is associated with increased breast cancer risk in both pre and postmenopausal women.
Melanoma Vitamin D Research
Title: "Relevance of Vitamin D in Melanoma Development, Progression and Prognosis"
Link: https://ar.iiarjournals.org/content/40/1/473
Type of Evidence: Review of clinical and experimental studies
Key Findings: Lower vitamin D levels were related to greater progression of melanoma (Breslow thickness, Clark level, AJCC stage). Higher vitamin D levels were associated with longed overall survival and reduced risk for melanoma-specific death.
Hematological Cancers Vitamin D Research
Title: "Vitamin D in haematological disorders and malignancies"
Link: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5303117/
Type of Evidence: Review of in vitro, in vivo, and clinical studies
Key Findings: Vitamin D exhibits anticancer properties in various hematological malignancies. In abnormal hematological cells, vitamin D promotes apoptosis, induces differentiation, and inhibits proliferation.
Prostate Cancer Vitamin D Research
Title: "Circulating Vitamin D Level and Mortality in Prostate Cancer Patients: A dose-response Meta-analysis"
Link: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6240137/
Type of Evidence: Meta-analysis
Key Findings: Higher vitamin D levels were associated with a reduction in all-cause mortality and prostate cancer-specific mortality. Some studies suggest vitamin D supplementation may modestly decrease PSA levels and reduce PSA rise rate.
It's essential to note that while many studies show promising results, the evidence is not always consistent across all cancer types, and more research is needed to understand the role of vitamin D in cancer prevention and treatment fully.
Vitamin D and the Impact on Mental Health of People Living with Cancer
Title: "Vitamin D supplementation for depression in cancer patients: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials"
Link: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0965229920319099
Type of Evidence: Systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials
Key Findings:Vitamin D supplementation may positively affect depressive symptoms in cancer patients. The meta-analysis found a significant reduction in depression scores with vitamin D supplementation compared to placebo or no intervention. This suggests that maintaining adequate vitamin D levels could be important in supporting mental well-being during cancer treatment.
and another mental health article
Title: "Association between vitamin D and depressive symptoms in cancer patients"
Link: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7240878/
Type of Evidence: Cross-sectional study
Key Findings: This study found a significant inverse association between serum vitamin D levels and depressive symptoms in cancer patients. Patients with higher vitamin D levels reported fewer depressive symptoms, suggesting that vitamin D status may play a role in mood regulation during cancer treatment. These findings highlight the potential of vitamin D as a supportive intervention for mental health in cancer care.
These studies provide encouraging evidence for vitamin D's potential benefits in supporting mood and mental well-being during cancer treatment. While more research is needed to establish definitive guidelines, maintaining adequate vitamin D levels through diet, safe sun exposure, or supplementation under medical supervision may be a simple yet effective strategy to support the overall mental health of people living with cancer.
Genetic single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) play a significant role in vitamin D absorption, metabolism, and utilisation, potentially impacting cancer immunity and vulnerability.
Several key Vitamin D related SNPs have been identified that could affect a cancer patient's immunity or increase a person's vulnerability to cancer.
- The VDR rs7975232 (ApaI) SNP in the Vitamin D Receptor gene has significant associations with overall and progression-free survival in colorectal cancer patients. The AA genotype was associated with lower overall survival and a tendency towards lower progression-free survival. This suggests that patients with the AA genotype may have reduced vitamin D signalling, potentially leading to decreased anti-tumour immune responses and diminished cancer cell growth inhibition.
- The CYP24A1 rs6068816 SNP, found in the gene encoding the enzyme responsible for vitamin D catabolism, showed the strongest association with overall and progression-free survival. The TT genotype was significantly associated with lower survival rates. This genotype may lead to increased vitamin D catabolism, reducing the availability of active vitamin D for immune modulation and cancer suppression.
- The GC rs7041 SNP in the Vitamin D Binding Protein gene showed significant associations with overall survival. The C allele was associated with lower overall survival than the AA genotype. This allele may affect vitamin D transport and bioavailability, potentially reducing its immune-modulating effects.
- While the VDR rs2228570 (FokI) SNP didn't show significant associations in the final multivariate analysis, it showed tendencies in initial analyses that warrant attention. The AA genotype tended to lower progression-free survival compared to the G allele. This SNP may affect VDR protein structure and function, potentially altering vitamin D signalling in immune cells.
These SNPs could affect cancer immunity and vulnerability through several mechanisms, including altered vitamin D signalling, metabolism, transport, microbiome interactions, and T-cell function. However, focusing on proactive approaches and practical strategies is crucial rather than dwelling on the survival statistics they refer to.
Personalised supplementation strategies can make a significant difference for patients with SNPs affecting vitamin D metabolism. Higher doses of vitamin D may be necessary to achieve optimal blood levels. Regular monitoring of 25(OH)D levels can help tailor supplementation to individual needs. Studies suggest that vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol) may be more effective at raising blood levels than vitamin D2 (ergocalciferol). For individuals with specific SNPs, using calcifediol (25-hydroxyvitamin D) supplements might bypass some metabolic steps and be more effective.
Timing and absorption of vitamin D supplements
This can be optimised by taking them with a meal containing healthy fats. Sublingual or liquid forms of vitamin D might be more effective for those with absorption issues. Careful, moderate sun exposure can help boost vitamin D levels naturally, which can be particularly beneficial for those with SNPs affecting vitamin D synthesis.
Diet optimisation can play a crucial role.
Incorporating vitamin D-rich foods like fatty fish, egg yolks, and fortified foods can complement supplementation. A diet rich in prebiotics and probiotics can support a healthy gut microbiome, enhancing the immune-modulating effects of vitamin D.
Ensuring adequate intake of complementary nutrients like magnesium, vitamin K2, and zinc can support vitamin D metabolism and function, which can be particularly important for individuals with SNPs affecting vitamin D pathways.
Lifestyle interventions can also make a difference.
Regular physical activity has been shown to enhance the effectiveness of vitamin D in the body and support overall immune function and cancer prevention. Incorporating stress-reduction techniques like meditation or yoga can be beneficial, as chronic stress can negatively impact vitamin D metabolism and immune function.
Monitoring Vitamin D Levels
Regular monitoring and adjusting of vitamin D levels is crucial. Some practitioners recommend aiming for higher levels.
- Vitamin D 25-Hydroxy (25(OH)D):
Functional Medicine Optimal Range USA: 50-80 ng/mL (80 ng/mL for cancer) or 160 nmol/L in other countries
This is the main circulating form of vitamin D in the blood and is type considered the best indicator of overall vitamin D status when we are looking at say bone health. It reflects vitamin D produced in the skin and from diet and supplements. This 25-hydroxy form has a relatively long half-life of about 2-3 weeks, making it a stable marker of vitamin D status and the only one many of us can access without the support of a health professional.
- Vitamin D 1,25 di-OH (1,25(OH)2D):
Range: 40-65 pg/mL
This is the biologically active form of vitamin D, calcitriol. It is produced in the kidneys from the other Vitamin D, 25(OH)D, and has a short half-life of about 4 hours. The body tightly regulates its levels, and they are not modulated via supplementation.
Pharmacokinetic studies:
Title: "Vitamin D: Metabolism, Molecular Mechanism of Action, and Pleiotropic Effects"
Link: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4756388/
Type of evidence: Review of pharmacokinetic and molecular studies
For most people, supplementation with vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol) is recommended when needed. This allows the body to regulate the conversion to the biologically active form as required.
Testing can help you understand your genetic profile and tailor vitamin D strategies more effectively, optimising the benefits for immune function and cancer prevention.
Emerging research offers hope for the future.
Studies are exploring vitamin D analogs that may have enhanced anti-cancer properties without the risk of hypercalcemia. These could provide new options for individuals with SNPs affecting traditional vitamin D metabolism. Research is also investigating how vitamin D supplementation can enhance the effectiveness of cancer immunotherapies, offering hope for improved treatment outcomes, even for those with challenging genetic profiles.
The gut-vitamin D-immune axis is an exciting area of research. It suggests that targeted probiotic interventions could enhance vitamin D's benefits in cancer prevention and treatment.
So, while genetic factors can influence vitamin D metabolism and its effects on cancer immunity, numerous strategies exist to optimise vitamin D status and support overall health. By taking a personalised, comprehensive approach that includes supplementation, diet, lifestyle interventions, and regular monitoring, individuals can maximise the potential benefits of vitamin D for cancer prevention and treatment support. The ongoing research in this field offers hope for more effective, targeted interventions.
So again, key SNPs are used to check if you are struggling with raising your Vitamin D levels.
- VDR rs7975232 (ApaI): AA genotype may reduce vitamin D signalling and anti-tumour responses.
- CYP24A1 rs6068816: TT genotype may increase vitamin D catabolism, reducing active vitamin D availability.
- GC rs7041: C allele may affect vitamin D transport and bioavailability.
- VDR rs2228570 (FokI): AA genotype may alter vitamin D signalling in immune cells.
Actionable Steps:
- Genetic testing: If you have a cancer diagnosis, present or past, assess the SNP profile for vitamin D-related genes.
- Vitamin D testing: Regular monitoring of 25(OH)D levels, with cancer patients aiming for 80 ng/mL USA or 160 nmol/L in other countries such as Australia
- Personalised supplementation:
- Higher doses for patients with SNPs affecting metabolism
- Consider vitamin D3 over D2, even if not generally into animal products.
- Explore calcifediol for those with impaired metabolism
- Optimise absorption:
- Take supplements with fatty meals
- Consider sublingual or liquid forms if absorption is an issue
- Support co-nutrients:
- Ensure adequate magnesium, vitamin K2, and zinc intake
- Dietary interventions:
- Increase vitamin D-rich foods
- Incorporate prebiotics and probiotics for gut health
- Lifestyle modifications:
- Safe, moderate sun exposure
- Promote regular exercise
- Implement stress reduction techniques
Vitamin D and COVID-19
As we've discussed, vitamin D is crucial in modulating the immune response. COVID-19 puts a lot of stress on the person living with cancer and their immune system, and this then compromises cancer treatment outcomes. The immune-specific protective mechanisms of vitamin D supplements only last around 4 hours. So, dosing continuously and consistently might be needed to reduce the severity of COVID-19 infections, regulate the production of inflammatory cytokines, and support the body's antiviral response and recovery. This thinking also applies to me with my nasty tick bites and other nasty little pathogenic infections life throws out way.
Mould and Vitamin D
Vitamin D deficiency increases susceptibility to mould infections and allergic reactions. Vitamin D enhances the production of antimicrobial peptides in epithelial cells, which are crucial for defence against mould and other pathogens. These studies suggest that adequate vitamin D levels may be necessary for preventing and managing mould infections, particularly in individuals with compromised immune systems or chronic respiratory conditions.
Title: "Vitamin D Status Is Associated with Severity of Allergic Bronchopulmonary Aspergillosis in Adults with Cystic Fibrosis"
Link: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6262023/
Type of Evidence: Observational study.
and
Title: "Vitamin D in defence of the human immune response"
Link: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3166406/
Type of Evidence: Review of molecular and clinical studies
Recommended Vitamin D Levels and Dosing
Functional medicine doctors often recommend maintaining blood levels of 25(OH)D between 50 and 80 ng/mL (125 and 200 nmol/L) for optimal immune support. People with cancer must aim for the top end of the range.
For COVID-19 prevention, suggested daily doses range from 5,000 to 10,000 IU of vitamin D3.
Dosing Protocols for COVID-19
Some functional medicine practitioners recommend a "loading dose" approach for those with low vitamin D levels:
50,000 IU of vitamin D3 daily for 5-7 days, followed by 5,000-10,000 IU daily for maintenance.
For acute COVID-19 cases, higher doses have been suggested:
Up to 100,000-200,000 IU of vitamin D3 daily for 3-4 days, followed by 50,000 IU daily for the next 3-4 days.
Considerations for Cancer Patients
Cancer patients are at higher risk of vitamin D deficiency, which may increase their vulnerability to COVID-19.
Regular monitoring of vitamin D levels is crucial for cancer patients.
As discussed earlier, dosing may need to be adjusted based on individual needs and current vitamin D status.
Safety and Monitoring
While high doses are sometimes recommended for short periods, it's essential to monitor blood levels regularly.
Calcium levels should also be checked to avoid hypercalcemia, especially with high-dose protocols and especially for people living with cancer and on cancer treatments.
Additional Supportive Measures During COVID
Combine vitamin D supplementation with other immune-supporting and vitamin D-friendly specific supplements. Vitamin C, zinc, quercetin, magnesium, selenium, and K2 are essentials.
Maintain a healthy lifestyle with proper nutrition, adequate sleep, and stress management.
I have read these general recommendations during my research on various functional medicine perspectives. A healthcare professional should always supervise individual treatment, especially for cancer patients or those with other underlying health conditions.
Where to Buy?
A reliable bioavailable Vitamin D3 - K2 liquid can be found at MCS Formulas. Use our study support group code abbey5 for a 5% discount on your MCS Formulas order. At the same time, you will be supporting me to support everyone here full-time, free of charge. Win-win! I appreciate any support you can provide. Here's the link to my trusted supplier's discounts page, where your purchases support me in return.
https://myhealingcommunity.com/mhc-discounts-with-suppliers/
Conclusion
To conclude this comprehensive exploration of vitamin D's role in cancer care and immune support, I'd like to emphasize this nutrient's immense potential for enhancing overall health and well-being, particularly for those living with cancer. The research I've shared here highlights vitamin D's multifaceted benefits, from boosting cancer immunity and improving treatment outcomes to supporting mental health and potentially reducing COVID-19 severity.
While the science behind vitamin D is complex, involving intricate pathways through our gut microbiome and genetic factors, the practical steps we can take are more straightforward. By optimizing our vitamin D levels through personalized supplementation, dietary choices, and lifestyle adjustments, we can harness its power to support our body's natural defences.
Remember, every small step towards improving your vitamin D status is a step towards better health. Whether you're living with cancer, supporting someone who is, or simply looking to enhance your immune function or current treatments, optimal vitamin D levels need to remain a priority.
© Abbey Mitchell 2024
Admin and founder of The Healing Cancer Study Support Group
www.myhealingcommunity.com, where this post was first published September 2024.
DISCLAIMER: Any and all information in this post was gathered from published research in cell lines or animals, or from typical clinical use. It may not be complete, may not have not been verified in humans, and is NOT meant or given as medical advice, but only as a guide to further exploration.
Continue Reading...
BLOG