We all know getting too much sun can be harmful, but getting some sun may be critical for women to help protect themselves against breast cancer. A recent study from the German Cancer Research Center, in collaboration with teams at the University Hospitals in Hamburg-Eppendorf, found clear evidence that women with very low blood levels of vitamin D have a significantly higher breast cancer risk. The study, involving 1,394 breast cancer patients and and an equal number of healthy post-menopausal women, found that vitamin D regulates the body's calcium metabolism and has a cancer preventing effect on cell growth, cell differentiation and cell death. There are many foods rich in vitamin D, including dairy products and seafood, but, far and away, the best source of vitamin D is produced by our own bodies with the aid of sunlight. Yet another good reason to go outside for a run today!
