Vitamin D is a fat-soluble steroid hormone precursor that contributes to the maintenance of normal levels of calcium and phosphorus in the bloodstream. Strictly speaking, it is not a vitamin since human skin can manufacture it, but it is referred to as one for historical reasons. It is often known as calciferol One cup of vitamin D fortified milk supplies about one-fourth of the RDA (Required Daily Allowance).



Twenty minutes of fully body exposure to sunlight equals about 20,000 IU (international units)

As we age we need even more vitamin D. Here is the daily chart

* Ages 19-50 - 200 IU

* Ages 51-69 - 400 IU

* Ages 70 and above - 600 IU

One tablespoon is about 1,400 IU of vitamin D, therefore one teaspoon is 450 IU (3 teaspoons = 1 tablespoon)

Most cod liver oil comes from Norway and the other Scandinavian countries; where it has been part of the diet for decades. The immune-boosting benefits of the oil may be only now coming to light in this country, but they've been common knowledge in those countries. You'll still find that most moms and grandmothers keep a jar of cod liver oil in their cupboard. If you take or decide to use cod liver oil to get your vitamin D, which l think is an excellent option, keep a few things in mind.

First, if you sunbathe 20 minues a day, 3 times a week, you may not need to supplement with cod liver oil.

If you do not sunbathe a lot, I would suggest having your doctor check your vitamin D levels before you take cod liver oil; you may need to add vitamin D as a supplement. Second, not all cod liver oil is the same. In fact, most products are worthless, either because they're rancid or because of the way they're produced. Also, much like olive oil, cod liver oil is marketed in a couple of different grades. Regular cod liver oil from the top of the barrel is a lighter oil containing less in the way of vitamins and essential fatty acids. Obviously therefore this means that the oil at the bottom of the barrell is a higher quality.

Keep in mind that vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin. If you have difficulty digesting fats (or have had your gallbladder removed and aren't taking bile salts), you will have a more difficult t!me using vitamin D from cod liver oil. Cod liver oil has also been shown to work better when there is an adequate amount of saturated fats in the diet as well. A high-quality butter works well in this respect.