DEAR DR. GOTT: I am 71 years old. Just as a precaution, my doctor has me on vitamin D (2,000 IU). According to your article in October 2010, this is too much. I am wondering if the sweats I am having are coming from this. They occur with little exertion, like vacuuming or other minor chores. My face, hair and neck are dripping with sweat. I usually stop what I am doing until I cool off. My husband looks at me and can’t believe it. I am very healthy, except for taking simvastatin, which I have been on for years.

I read your column every day and enjoy it very much. I’ll be looking for a response from you.

DEAR READER: Vitamin D is a fat-soluble essential nutrient required for the growth and development of strong teeth and bones and for the absorption of calcium and phosphorous from the intestines. It is available in fortified milk products, egg yolks, salmon, tuna and other foods. [Read more...]