Vitamin D

Vitamin D

Function

Vitamin D helps with increasing the absorption of calcium, assists in bone growth and the integrity of bone, promotes strong teeth, and normal blood clotting.

It also helps regulate the amount of phosphorus in the body as well as assisting in a healthy heart and nervous system.

Recent studies suggest it may have beneficial effects on psoriasis, the immune system, and thyroid function.

Deficiency of vitamin D

A lack of this nutrient can lead to softening of the bone, muscle twitching and convulsions, diarrhea, insomnia and visual problems.

Deficiency can also lead to rickets in children.In adults, the shortage causes loss of minerals from the bones, (osteomalacia) where the bones are sore, tender, and muscles are weak. In elderly people, osteoporosis may appear when protein is also lost from the bone.

Food Sources of Vitamin D:

Butter Cod Liver Oil

Dandelion Greens

Egg Yolks

Halibut

Liver

Milk

Oatmeal

Salmon

Sardines

Sweet Potatoes,

Tuna

Vegetable Oils

Herbal Sources of Vitamin D:

Alfalfa

Horsetail

Nettle

Parsley

Supplementing Vitamin D

This is not a vitamin you wantto start supplementing with before getting tested.

Vitamin D exists in several forms in the human body. Sometimes physicians order a test called the 1,25 (OH)2 D test. This is the most potent or active form of vitamin D in the human body, but according to Dr. Holick and Dr. Dawson Hughes, measuring 25(OH)2 D is a better blood test for assessing vitamin D status and say, frankly that the 1,25(OH)2 D blood test is “useless” in the assessment of vitamin D status.

Vitamin D3 derived from sunlight is called cholecalciferol. It is activated in the liver to 25(OH)2 D, also called calcidiol. From there, it enters blood circulation and travels to tissues, including the kidneys, where enzymes activate it to its most biologically active form, 1,25(OH)2 D, also called calcitriol.

In my opinion Vitamin D2 supplements belong in the garbage. It's D3 that is beneficial.

I suggest reading up on this vitamin here.

Suggested Supplement

Lifetime's Liquid Vitamin D3 Cholecalciferol Mixed Berry Flavor 16 fl oz NEW Contains the High Biologic Activity of Vitamin D3 in Liquid Form for Optimal Absorption Great Tasting! Mixed Berry Flavor Premium Quality A Dietary Supplement LifeTime Liquid D3 provides vitamin D3 (Cholecalciferol) in an easy-to-take, once-daily, liquid drink for optimal absorption by the body. Vitamin D3 is the preferred form, due to its high level of biologic activity. The main function of vitamin D is to maintain normal blood levels of calcium and phosphorus. It also aids in the absorption of calcium, helping to form and maintain strong bones. Without vitamin D, bones can become thin, brittle, soft, or misshapen.LifeTime Liquid D3:Contains Vitamin D3 in liquid form for maximum absorption. Assists in the absorption of calcium. Is easy-to-take and perfect for those who cannot take solid supplements or who have trouble with digestion. Provides 32, once-daily servings in a therapeutic, optimal dose. LifeTime products are manufactured to meet strict quality control standards and formulated using only quality industry acceptable materials.Suggested Use Shake well prior to use. As a dietary supplement, take 0.5 (one-half) fluid once (15 ml) once daily or as directed by your healthcare professional. Can be taken straight from the bottle or mixed with a favorite beverage.Supplement FactsSupplement Facts Serving Size: 0.5 fl oz (15 ml) Servings Per Container: 32 Amount Per Serving % DV Calories 12 Total Carbohydrate 3 g 1%* Sugars 3 g ** Vitamin D3 (Cholecalciferol) 1000 IU 250% *Daily Value based on a 2,000 calorie diet. **Daily Value not established.Other Ingredients Purified water, concord grape juice concentrate, agave nectar, wildberry juice concentrate, carrageenan gum, citric acid, natural blueberry flavor, sodium benzoate and potassium sorbate.Warnings Important: Keep out of reach of children. As with all dietary supplements, consult your healthcare professional before use.Additional Disclaimer: Consult a medical professional for guidelines to suit individual needs, especially prior to giving Vitamin D to a child or to women who may be lactating or pregnant.

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The information on this web site is intended for educational purposes only, and not as any form of medical advice. You should not use the information contained herein for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease, or prescribing any medication. If you have or suspect you have a medical problem, contact your health care provider.