“Vitamin D may represent the single most cost-effective medical intervention we have today.” — Minneapolis internist Dr. Greg Plotnikoff, as quoted in the Minneapolis Star-Tribune. Plotnikoff is the author of a study suggesting that employers could save $112 to $370 per employee each year in preventable illness and improved productivity by encouraging workers to boost their vitamin D.

According to the Star-Tribune, “The study, being published in the Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine’s March issue, was based on data from more than 10,600 workers at Minneapolis-based Allina Health. Allina operates the Center for Health Care Innovation and the Penny George Institute for Health and Healing, which Plotnikoff leads.”

More than 60 percent of the women in the study were vitamin D deficient, which is why Plotnikoff advocates taking action now. “We have no problem ordering a $1,500 MRI or a $90,000 course of Avastin for cancer,” he told the Star-Tribune. “Why wait 10 years for randomized controlled trial … when you can measure, replenish and see right away if it makes a difference?”

To read the story click here.

To see an ABC News report on the Tribune’s story click here.