The Deal with Vitamin D

Vitamin D is an important vitamin that promotes absorption of calcium, regulates bone growth, and plays a role in immune function. You may have heard that most of us do not get enough due to lack of sun exposure and sunscreen use. For certain people, supplementation can be beneficial. Supplements can contain either D₂ (ergocalciferol) or D₃ (cholecalciferol), but we recommend D₃!

• D₃ is the form naturally made by our bodies after our skin gets sun exposure
• D₃ in supplements comes from lanolin, a product of sheep’s wool
• D₃ has been shown to raise blood levels quicker
• The body is able to store D₃ better so levels are sustained
• D₃ supplements appear to be more shelf-stable, so are more likely to remain active for a longer period of time and when exposed to different conditions (temperature, humidity, and storage)
• D₂ is plant-derived and must be converted in the body before our cells can actually use it  – vegetarians should choose this form, do not fret, it will still raise levels!
• Sunscreen containing as little as SPF 8 has been shown to reduce the production of Vitamin D in the skin by 95% – this is why many of us need a supplement!
• The only foods that naturally contain vitamin D are egg yolks, seafood, and mushrooms

For more information visit The NIH Website. Talk to your healthcare professional to see if you need Vitamin D.