Vitamin D and African Americans

Effects of Sunlight On African Americans

African Americans tend to be more likely to have a Vitamin D deficiency.  This is partly because the pigmentation of African Americans reduces Vitamin D production in the skin, when skin is exposed to sunlight.  Those who have a low intake of Vitamin D through sunlight, food sources and supplements have deficient Vitamin D levels. 

Vitamin D in Older Adults

There is some positive news for African Americans.  African Americans have lower rates of osteoporotic fractures.  For example, a 68 year old black woman has an 4% chance of a hip fracture compared to an 11% chance in a 68 year old white woman. 

Vitamin D and Diet

 Some of the deficiency also comes from lactose intolerance, limited consumption of milk and milk products. Limited diets that do not include fortified breakfast cereals may also have a deficiency.  Proper Vitamin D levels protect against cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and some other chronic conditions.  Adding a healthy diet of Vitamin D rich foods and supplements can increase the level of  Vitamin D that African Americans need.

Sample Menu for Improving Vitamin D Levels

Breakfast
2 egg yolks, 2 pieces of bacon and toast.  1 glass of Florida's Natural orange juice for                              calcium benefits. (Calcium helps to make Vitamin D be absorbed by the body.

or 

Fortified cereal (example Multi Grain Cheerios) and fortified milk.

Lunch

Chicken Breast, broccoli and rice pilaf.

Dinner

Salmon, string beans and a baked potato.

  

The benefits of Vitamin D