Vitamin D...are you deficient?

Due to the steroids those with Addison's Disease or Adrenal Insufficiency must take we are at an increased risk to develop osteoporosis. It is very important that you consume calcium rich foods and in some cases take calcium supplements, as well as Vitamin D. Vitamin D deficiency is becoming more prevalent so it is a good idea to have your levels checked. As we are being more careful of sun exposure we are increasingly becoming Vitamin D deficient.

The upper tolerable intake level recommended by the FDA in the United States is 4000 IU.* The best form is Vitamin D3 which is the same as the body makes from sun exposure. A few minutes of sun exposure on non sunscreen protected skin daily will usually supply all the Vitamin D needed. But those living in colder climates, where less sunshine occurs are at more risk for deficiency, as well as those who use sunscreen or are not outside regularly.

Get your levels checked! Be sure of your levels and your needs.

* This post has been edited due to the recent new recommendations from the FDA.

Now you have a diagnosis, what next?

You have been given the diagnosis of Addison's Disease or Adrenal Insufficiency...now what do you do? First, learn all you can about your illness, from your doctor, healthcare workers, forums and the many resources at your disposal thanks to the internet. We are living in the best time of all for the Addison's patient. We have the necessary medicines and we have information readily available to us...all we have to do is look for it.

Most Addison's Disease patients live a normal life-span...if they take care of their disease properly. Learn, learn, and learn some more...an educated patient is a much healthier one and their disease is much better managed than one who knows little about it or why they need to take special care of themselves. Our care is ultimately in our hands...our doctors can give us the medicines but we must take them and learn to live with the ramifications of having a chronic illness.

Have a healthy and happy summer.

Addisons Village Forum Link:
http://z12.invisionfree.com/apeoplevillage/index.php?act=idx