I had low Vitamin D levels because I take seizure medication. At least that's what the doctor told me. I heard that I could go to a tanning booth and get all the vitamin D I need. I thought tanning booths were taboo. What's the scoop on this?

Taking anticonvulsant and some other types of medication used for the treatment of tuberculosis is a known risk factor for low vitamin D levels. It seems these drugs interrupt the metabolism of vitamin D before your body can use it. The result can be decreased intestinal calcium absorption and low bone mass density, which can lead to bone fractures.

Current recommendations for adults with vitamin D deficiency include: 1) eating a diet rich in calcium and vitamin D, 2) get adequate sunshine each day, and 3) supplement the diet with calcium and vitamin D with vitamin/calcium pills.

Repeated blood tests can be used to determine change in your blood level of vitamin D. The normal range is between 30 and 80 ng/mL. When blood levels dip down to 30 and below, it's time to get serious about replenishing what your body needs. Your doctor can help you establish the best program for your age, health, and location.

Location is important because in the northern hemisphere, there are certain latitudes that just don't get enough sun rays to build up vitamin D in the body. Some people may be advised to go to a tanning booth when their vitamin D levels remain low despite all efforts to correct this through diet and supplements.

But this should not be done by anyone without a physician's supervision. The effects of tanning booths on vitamin D have not been fully investigated. If you have had skin cancer of any kind (but especially melanoma), or you have any risk factors for skin cancer, a tanning booth may not be recommended.