Medical researchers are homing in on a new wonder drug that can significantly reduce the risk of heart disease — sunshine.
A study released Tuesday found that men who are deficient in the so-called sunshine vitamin, vitamin D, have more than double the normal risk of suffering a heart attack.
Another study last week found that low levels of vitamin D increase the risk of diabetes, and a study last month linked deficiencies to an increased risk of dying from breast cancer.
The findings join a growing body of evidence indicating that an adequate level of the vitamin, which most people can get from 20 daily minutes in the sun, is crucial to maintaining good health.
Not every scientist agrees, and there is controversy about what should be considered an adequate level of vitamin D in the blood. But sentiment gradually is shifting toward a higher intake.
The primary sources of vitamin D in the diet are milk, which is fortified to yield about 100 IUs per glass, and oily fish, which have a high content.
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