Vitamin D is essential to our bodies and is responsible for helping us absorb (via our intestines) some of the main nutrients our bodies need to function properly, such as calcium, magnesium, and phosphate, to name just a few. Vitamin D comes in two forms, D2 and D3, with the former being a more natural form of Vitamin D and therefore, more easily absorbed by our bodies. D2 is mainly produced by plants, and D3 is made from our skin when exposed to the sun. Most foods that we consume also contain the D3 form.
Without proper Vitamin D, our bodies do not function properly. Our bones would not be able to absorb calcium or phosphorous; our pancreas will not be able to process insulin; inflammation & cancer becomes more likely. Furthermore, the lack of Vitamin D has been linked to serious conditions such as depression, autism, asthma, obesity, arthritis, and just about every other major disease.
VITAMIN D IS CRUCIAL TO OUR HEALTH.
Our bodies depend on it to function normally.
Here are a few studies linking the importance of Vitamin D:
Vitamin D Deficiency in Children and Adolescents
Vitamin D deficiency in children aged 6 to 12 years
Vitamin D is a major component in how our immune systems work, functioning to activate the innate and dampen the adaptive immune systems. Lack of Vitamin D or deficiency has been linked to an increase in viral infections, including an increased risk of HIV. Without Vitamin D, our immune systems cannot respond properly. Low levels of Vitamin D have also shown to cause an increase in risk for tuberculosis. In the past, high levels of Vitamin D were used to decrease the risk of and help treat respiratory infections and asthma.
How much Vitamin D should a person take?
The most recent update of the FDA recommended daily allowance of Vitamin D was in 2010. They state that 600 iu for adults at 400 iu for children is sufficient. These are the “minimum amounts required to stay out of a serious deficiency.”
In my office, I judge Vitamin D intake based on several factors, but believe that everyone needs to be on it for health benefits. On average, I recommend 1000-5000 iu daily. Adequate levels can be determined with a blood draw. While the lab states that 33-49 is “normal”, it is deficient. Optimal is what needs to be seen and that is anywhere from 60-80. Toxicity can happen, but it is difficult to achieve.
How do we get Vitamin D?
The sun is the BEST source of Vitamin D and the most natural form that our bodies are made to process. However, living in the Midwest, we all know that it can be difficult to achieve. Not only does weather play a major role, but if you are in the sun and apply sunscreen, more than 95% of the rays are blocked, hence resulting in minimal, if any, absorption. Just being outside for 15-20 minutes, our bodies can make about 10,000 iu of Vitamin D. As long as we are safely exposed to the sun, it is okay for us to be in it for little bouts at a time within reason.
Liquid Vitamin D3
If you would like to supplement with a Vitamin D product, we carry Ortho Molecular products in our office. We are extremely careful about where and how we source all of the products that we offer or recommend, as we are always striving for purity and clean ingredients. If you are interested in Ortho Molecular products, please make an appointment with us today, or stop in at the front desk.
We are always here to evaluate your health concerns or questions. We can also order testing in our office for Vitamin D levels to see if that’s playing a negative role in your health.
Call us today to schedule an appointment: (815) 322-9300
