Vitamin D slows progression

Cheryl,
There are three reasons my oncologist told me to take a minimum of 6 Viactiv suppliment tablets per day.

1> Because I am on ADT I have to be concerned with Osteoperosis. I take prescription Fosamax (70mg) for Osteoperosis prevention and a minimum of 1200 IU of Viactiv. Because I live in Las Vegas, he felt that would be enough but if I lived where I would have less direct sun I should take even more.

2> Viactiv is also rich in Calcium which is well known to be good for my weakening bones. Because I will likely me on ADT for most of my remaining life, anything that will delay the onset of Osteoperosis is heavily advised.

3> This one's more complicated but I'll take a crack at it...Viactiv is rich in the right vitamin D ~ Chlolecalciferol or Vitamin D3. This is converted in the liver to Calcidiol. For this reason my Liver is monitored to make sure it is functioning correctly. Calcidiol is converted in the body (kidneys), and in prostate cells, to Calcitriol. Calcitriol is known to suppress prostate cancer cell growth. Harvard School of Public Health did a study and found that calcitiol levels in the blood above 40 pg/ml that risk of metastatic prostate cancer was significantly lessened.

There are studies being done to determine that prostate cancer involving the bone heavily reduces calcitriol in blood levels. In addition, I understand this is because the affected bone grows uncontrollably and it would make sense that it consumes more calcitiol and calcium. New studies are being done to determine to determine if more D3 should be used in conjunction with Taxotere when receiving chemo. Not sure about why, but I have not had chemo.

So to answer your question, I have spoke to my oncologist about it, he advised me to take alot of it, and I have done additional research on my own about it.

PS: And you are right on the money with your research. Great job!!!! Your uncle and cousin are blessed that you are being so diligent.

Tony