Nancy Dell: Fasting, Vitamin D

1. I am thinking of doing a 2 day juice fast. Is this safe and healthy?
Dot via the Internet.

Always check with your diet before following any special diet because they are not always safe for everyone. In the case of a 2 day juice fast, it probably won't hurt the average healthy person but there is no real health advantage for the average healthy person either.

When you fast, your metabolism shuts down and you will burn fewer calories. Fasting deprives your body of nutrients and energy.

When you have less energy, you probably won't want to exercise or get your chores done. You may be irritable, get headaches and bad breath.

Your protein intake will be low so your body will need to use up some of your own muscle for protein. Losing muscle mass further reduces your metabolism.

If you want to do some sort of "fast", I suggest you cut out sugar. as much as you can. You will find that after a few days without sugar, you will feel better, you won't crave it, and fruits will taste really sweet!

2. My vitamin D is low. I have been taking a supplement but it is rising very slowly. Any suggestions?

According to new research at the Clevland Clinic, take your vitamin D supplement with your largest meal of the day. Doing so boosts absorption almost 57%.

If your blood level was really low, you may be taking a prescription vitamin D. But if you are taking an over-the -counter vitamin D, be sure your dose is large enough. How do you calculate your dose? Well, experts recommend your blood level be 50 or higher. You need 100 international units of vitamin D for each point your blood is below 50.

So if you need to raise your blood level 30 points you need 3000 IU of vitamin D.

Vitamin D will keep your bones healthy, improve your mood and energy. boost your immunity, and reduce your risk of cancer and diabetes.