While ample levels of vitamin D can be easily obtained through supplementing with 1,000 - 2,000 units of vitamin D a day, researchers point out that a huge deficiency is abound our nation. The New York Times writes, "Vitamin D promises to be the most talked-about and written-about supplement of the decade. While studies continue to refine optimal blood levels and recommended dietary amounts, the fact remains that a huge part of the population — from robust newborns to the frail elderly, and many others in between — are deficient in this essential nutrient."

Cancer, heart disease, hypertension, bone loss, and even diabetes are just a few diseases increasing due to this deficiency. As I've discussed before , vitamin D is a steroid hormone that you can not live without. It is a mother hormone, involved in the synthesis of other important hormones and organ system function.

Every tissue in the body, including the brain, heart, muscles and immune system, has receptors for vitamin D, meaning that this nutrient is needed at proper levels for these tissues to function well.  

Studies indicate that the effects of a vitamin D deficiency include an elevated risk of developing (and dying from) cancers of the colon, breast and prostate; high blood pressure and cardiovascular disease; osteoarthritis; and immune-system abnormalities that can result in infections and autoimmune disorders like multiple sclerosis, Type 1 diabetes and rheumatoid arthritis.