Smile a little brighter

A new study shows that a sunny smile could save your little one a few scary trips to the dentist. Of course, I'm referring to vitamin D. And more specifically, to a recent review of over two dozen clinical trials, featuring more than 3,000 children. Its results showed that vitamin D can cut kids' incidence of dental caries (better known as cavities) inhalf. This study appeared in the December 2012 issue of Nutrition Reviews. And it isn't the first time research has revealed vitamin D as a natural weapon against tooth decay. But consensus on the evidence has been tough to come by, nevertheless. In fact, the American Dental Association, the American Medical Association, and the National Research Council have all had conflicting opinions on the dental benefits of D over the years. But then, it wouldn't be the first time "the powers that be" gave a natural compound the short shrift, either. So it's a good thing you don't have to wait for the ADA to get with the program. I've written countless times about the benefits of vitamin D--against everything from cancer to autism. Fewer cavities are really just the icing on the proverbial cake. So I'll say it again. (And again and again.) Take your D3--at least 2,000 IU--every day. And make sure your kids are getting their fair share of this sunshine vitamin, too. Children can take up to 1,000-2,000 IU depending on their age and size. Until next time, Dr. Fred