Vitamin D, Says God

Researchers at the University of Colorado-Denver have found that many Americans do not get enough Vitamin D. The gist of the story is that our bodies naturally produce Vitamin D when our skin is directly exposed to the sun. As Americans spend less time outdoors (bad for other reasons) and take precautions against skin cancer, like sunscreen and long sleeves (good for other reasons), our Vitamin D production has plummeted.

As one who loves to soak in golden rays, I greet this news the same way I did a recent study that found coffee reduces the risk of stroke in women: an excuse and justification for doing something I already enjoy.

But the Vitamin D story was not news to me. God had already told me.

Or rather, someone speaking for Him had. In a small midwestern town, the local newspaper is a thing of beauty, and the letters to the editor, in particular, can sometimes produce unspeakable gems. The hot topic of late has been chickens in town, but in late February, amid the cries of things fair and fowl, was this treat:

Should I share?

I have asked the Lord, in prayer, many times if I should share my experiences. To the best of my ability it seems like He has said to me to do so.

Many people have evaluated me and shared with me the belief I am a very optimistic person. But, the fact is I can feel emotionally blue on occasions. I shared this with a couple of relatives recently and got some excellent advice. They said I was a victim of seasonally affective disorder (S.A.D.). In Wisconsin the remedy for that is large quantities of Vitamin D.

We Badgers do not get enough sunshine during the winter months. Sunshine provides us an adequate amount of vitamin D the warmer seasons of the year. But are you an indoor person?

I checked the information with my general practitioner and he said 3,000 I.U. of the vitamin could be adequate for a 160-pound person. He has me scheduled for a blood test 30 days from inception. The vitamin is one of the fat soluble vitamins and is toxic at certain levels for people of various body sizes and various levels of body mass (fat content). Make sure you check with your own physician.

Vitamin D raised my spirits within three days. My hope and prayer is that, those who have not been aware of this information, will benefit.

It warms my heart to know that God cares enough to allow this critical information to finally reach us Badgers. But I do hope the UC-Denver scientists checked with Him before informing the nation.