HOW IS YOUR VITAMIN D?
Are you getting sick often?
It may be due to low Vitamin D. Vitamin D is a hormone not a vitamin and helps regulate your other hormones. It also plays a significant role in improving your immune status. It helps against viral replication and actually assist against autoimmune disease.
Optimal Vitamin D levels can not only improve immunity but can also lower your risk for autoimmune issues.
Recent research shows that most people are deficient in vitamin D (est. 40-80%). Over the last few years vitamin D has gained a lot of attention, and for good reason. By raising your vitamin D levels to optimal ranges, you can lower the risk for autoimmune disease by 20%. You can thank the immune modulating effects of the ‘sunshine vitamin’ for these amazing benefits.
How does Vitamin D work?
Not only does vitamin D benefit overall immune function, but it is actually considered an ‘immune modulator, meaning it helps regulate the immune system. This regulation can also positively affect the cardiovascular system, gut health, and even lower cancer risk. Low level vitamin D has been linked to an increased risk in malignancies, metabolic and cardiovascular disease, autoimmune issues, and high infection rates.
Every immune cell in our body contains receptors for this incredible vitamin. In fact, research shows that our immune cells need vitamin D to do their jobs properly. Working in tandem with our body’s own amazing processes, it can also inhibit the replication and growth of some viruses. Because vitamin D can also control inflammatory processes, it is vital for those dealing with autoimmune issues to have optimal levels.
What does Vitamin D really do?
- Helps manage blood sugar levels
- Protects against cancer
- Aids in hormone regulation
- Improves mood
- Lowers risk of cognitive decline
- Assists thyroid function
What is optimal levels for Vitamin D?
Optimal vitamin D levels are actually in the 60-80 range. However, if you are dealing with autoimmune issues, you should work to get your level close to 80. Getting outdoors for some sunshine can be amazing for our bodies, but sometimes supplementation is necessary also. It is important to check your levels before starting supplementation and monitoring and adjusting intake as needed.
What are the symptoms of Vitamin D deficiency?
- Fatigue
- Bone fractures
- Autoimmune issues
- Depression
- Arthritis
- Chronic pain
- Skin issues
- Impaired immune function
How do you increase your Vitamin D levels?
Spend more time outside exposing yourself to some sunshine.
You can also increase intake of certain vitamin D containing foods to help boost your levels. Some examples of vitamin D rich foods are: free range eggs, oily fish, and some dairy products. Although, if you are avoiding dairy your choices can be limited. If your levels fall below the optimal ranges, supplementation may be for you. Adding K2 to your vitamin D regimen can also aid in absorption and benefits.
We have several D options in our pharmacy, as well as D with K2 in one supplement. Visit us for further questions or support of how we can help
