Do you have fatigue, aches and pains, or a poor mood? If so, you are most likely low on Vitamin D!
What is Vitamin D?
Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin that works more like a steroid in the body. Your body produces Vitamin D naturally when your skin is exposed to the sun. You can also get Vitamin D through certain foods (such as fatty wild fish) or a supplement.
Why causes Vitamin D to be low?
Overuse of sunscreen
Living in a Northern climate (especially in the winter months)
Not eating enough Vitamin D rich foods (such as fatty wild fish)
Having dark colored skin
Being overweight
Aging
Why do I need Vitamin D?
To support your immune system
Keep your mood positive
Improve fatigue
Improve aches and pains
Complications of Vitamin D Deficiency:
Vitamin D deficiency is linked to increased risk of developing cancer, elevated BP, heart disease, diabetes, depression, fibromyalgia, chronic muscle pain, bone loss and autoimmune disorders.
How do I know what my Vitamin D level is?
Your Vitamin D level can be checked with a simple blood test. We encourage getting tested at least twice a year. The optimal range for Vitamin D is 40-70 ng./ml.
How much Vitamin D do I take?
As a general rule of thumb, 5,000 IU of Vitamin D3 daily will keep most people at optimal levels. Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin and while it is rare to get to toxic levels of Vitamin D we always recommend getting your level checked before starting a supplement - some patients will require a higher dose. Keep in mind when you are deficient in Vitamin D it can take 6-10 months to get to optimal levels.