This was the headline reported on BBC news recently. They found that people who were severelydeficient in vitamin D-that's a blood level of below 25nmol/L had a 125% increased risk of developing dementia or Alzheimers.
Those who were deficient and that's with a blood level of between 25-50nmol/L had a 69% increased risk of developing these diseases.
We get vitamin D from the sun. In Scotland, we can only produce vitamin D in our skin between April and October and between the hours of 11am and 3pm.
That's because the sun is too low at other times. Often also we have cloud cover which filters out the much of the beneficial rays.
What the research does not prove is that low levels of vitamin D causes these diseases but only that there is a link with low blood levels. But how do we find out if we are deficient? We offer a service in the pharmacy but also a test kit can be bought from our alternative websitewww.newlifehealthcare.co.uk. Once you have your result we can advise on doses to take to ensure you have adequate blood levels.
FLU VACCINATION INFORMATION
This year GGHB is running the flu vaccination service.
If you are over 65, then please wait for your letter from the NHS. That will give you the date, time and venue . (Younger patients e.g. 65 year olds are being vaccinatedfirst) It’s also important to point out that the over 65 vaccine is different from the one given to the under 65’s and also different from the one that may be available on a private basis. The under 65’s at risk e.g. asthmatics those with diabetes etc willeither be done at their GP practice or again at a hub.
If you are under 65 and a carer please contact the pharmacy on 0141 633 3868 or admin@newlifepharmacy.co.uk where you can book in for a vaccine. Unfortunately our private service is at capacity just now and we have a waiting list