Recently Cycle Harmony member Louise brought to my attention a research report by the University of Messina in Italy. According to the report, a single large dose of vitamin D may help women relieve painful periods – albeit the very high dosage of 300,000 IU, which was used in the research.

This is due to vitamin D’s effect on reducing the production of hormone-like substances called prostaglandins. Its excess production can trigger painful periods.

The Italian study is believed to be the first to look at vitamin D for painful periods. It's not known whether a single dose would be enough. If repeat doses are needed, the focus needs to be on keeping the dose at a safe level, the experts say.

Check out the detailed study here.

A couple of years ago in a routine physical exam, a blood test revealed that I had vitamin D deficiency. Despite the fact that we live in the sunny Southern California, my doctor said that 98% of his patients have very low levels of vitamin D.

It seems that many of us are not getting enough sun – one of the best sources of vitamin D. According to the Vitamin D Council, if you are someone who completely avoids the sun you will need to take approximately 4,000 units of vitamin D per day.

So if you suspect that you’re not getting sufficient sunshine, you may consider talking to your doctor and ordering a blood test to check on your vitamin D level. Since vitamin D plays a vital role in our energy and immunity, a daily vitamin D supplement may not be a bad idea, if you need it.

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