Vitamin D is also known as the ‘sunshine vitamin’. And this nutrient contributes in many ways to our overall health.
The Power of Vitamin D
Most commonly associated with promoting strong bones and teeth, Vitamin D facilitates the absorption of calcium and phosphorus, essential minerals for bone health. Additionally, Vitamin D is vital for muscle function, cellular function, immune support, gut health, and emotional well-being.
Vitamin D plays a crucial role in boosting our innate and adaptive immune systems, aiding in the prevention of infections. Additionally, it promotes the development of antimicrobial peptides that combat harmful bacteria. Adequate levels of vitamin D are necessary to reap these advantages. Studies have associated vitamin D deficiency with a higher likelihood of chronic ailments such as heart disease, diabetes, and autoimmune disorders.
Sources of Vitamin D
Sunlight is the best source of vitamin D. Just a brief exposure to sunlight stimulates your skin to produce vitamin D. However, here in Michigan, there are many months when we don’t even see the sunlight! In fact, between October and April, any visible sunlight produces only a minimal amount regardless of how long exposure. This is when supplementation is key!
Vitamin D can be found in foods, though most are just fortified with vitamin D. The highest amount is in fatty fish (salmon, sardines, tuna), eggs, and cremini mushrooms. This doesn’t leave many options for vegan patients.
Ask your provider to test your vitamin D level, well over 50% of the population is deficient, and of that, a majority is the elderly. We consider optimal levels to be 80ng/ml, but many only fall in the 20-30ng/ml range.
Supplementation
The most active form, similar to what is made via sunlight is vitamin D3. For most people 2,000-5,000 IU will maintain an optimal blood level. For deficiencies, dosing of more than 10,000 IU is needed. Consult with a functional medicine provider for an appropriate dose. At Age Management we carry various doses and see great improvement with weekly vitamin D injections.
Are you missing the benefits of vitamin D?
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