Vitamin D | What is it and how do you get it?
Vitamin D is one of the many nutrients Americans just aren’t getting enough of. In fact, recent research studies suggests that up to 80% of people in the U.S. have insufficient levels of this essential nutrient. Health care professionals and nutrition research scientists have known for years that it’s needed to help build and maintain strong bones. But recent research indicates it may do much more than that. In this article I talk about the two types of Vitamin D (D2 and D3) and what it can do for you. Then take the quick quiz to see how much of the vitamin you’re already getting.
What is Vitamin D and what does it do for us?
The vitamin comes in two forms, Vitamin D2 and Vitamin D3. “Vitamin D” (with out any subscript) is referred to active form of the vitamin, which is calcitriol. If you don’t have enough calcitriol (Vitamin D) then your body has to work harder to absorb calcium, which can lead to weak bones.
The active form of Vitamin D doesn’t just promote strong bones, but it also…
- Treats painful and weak bones (osteomalacia).
- Low phosphate in your blood stream (familial hypophosphatemia).
- Low blood calcium levels because of a low parathyroid thyroid hormone levels.
- Helps prevent low calcium
- Rickets.
The Difference between Vitamin D2 and D3
Vitamin D3 is naturally occurring through the skin (10-15 mins a day goes a long way) and can be considered a hormone instead of a vitamin since it is produced in the body. Vitamin D3 is also the compound found in oral vitamin D supplements.Vitamin D2 is derived from plants and animals. And so you see why the chemistry or metabolic pathways are different.
You should also know that just because their chemistry is different, vitamin D2 and vitamin D3 are thought to have an identical impact on your body because both ultimately are metabolized into the same active forms.
“Experts suggest that combining low-fat dairy products, sunlight exposure and oral supplementation may be the best collective way to acquire vitamin D. Regardless of the form consumed, similar health benefits may be expected. ~www.Livestrong.com
How Much Vitamin D do I need?
“Recent studies” suggest 5000 IU (International Units) is sufficient in maintaining your daily requirement, unless you have a deficiency. In that case your doctor would tell you how much you should be taking. (Maximized Living Sourced)
So, we know the vitamin is very important and to play it safe, the average American today should boost their dietary intake with supplemental vitamin D.
Aren’t sure how much Vitamin D you may need?
Take the QUIZ and find out?
P.S. My Shaklee offers healthy (toxic free) Vitamin D3 supplements that are guaranteed to always be green, safe, and work with over 55 years of science to maximize it’s effectiveness for your body. Check out our quick video.
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