Recent study findings suggest plenty of sunshine and vitamin D may help people with early stage lung cancer have a better survival rate after surgery..
Study participants who had high levels of vitamin D and had surgery in sunny months were more than twice as likely to be alive five years after surgery compared to patients with low levels of vitamin D who had surgery in the winter, the researchers said.
Exposure to sunshine is a significant source of vitamin D, which also comes from food and dietary supplements.
According to the findings of the study, the survival advantage at five years was 72 percent versus 29 percent, with the highest level of intake (of vitamin D) versus the lowest level of intake.
The link between vitamin D and surgery outcome is not known but other studies have hinted that it may work to inhibit a variety of cancers, the researchers said. Researchers conclude that vitamin D is anti-proliferative, meaning it inhibits the proliferation of abnormal cells. There is also evidence to suggest vitamin D inhibits the spread of tumors.
If this research is validated it may mean that taking vitamin D or fortified nutritional supplements soon after a diagnosis and before surgery could be beneficial.
All research on this web site is the property of Leslie Beck Nutrition Consulting Inc. and is protected by copyright. Keep in mind that research on these matters continues daily and is subject to change. The information presented is not intended as a substitute for medical treatment. It is intended to provide ongoing support of your healthy lifestyle practices.