Vitamin D-3 1000 IU

This fat-soluble vitamin is found in food sources like cod liver oil, fatty fish like tuna, eggs and fortified milk. Unlike other vitamins, Vitamin D can also be obtained by exposure to the sun. A light-skinned person can get sufficient amounts of vitamin D through just forty-five minutes of exposure to the sun each week. A darker-skinned person may need up to three hours. Diets have changed resulting in lowered consumption of fish, eggs, and milk. Fear of skin cancer has led to less sun exposure. Older people and people living in northern climates tend to stay indoors more and get less sun also. These factors have combined to result in wide-spread appearance of a condition called Vitamin D Deficiency Syndrome (VDDS). The potential health impact is significant.

Vitamin D is essential to the body’s utilization of calcium which is necessary for strong bones and teeth. The body cannot absorb calcium if Vitamin D is not present. Consistent use of Vitamin D along with calcium can prevent development of osteoporosis. Post-menopausal women are often prescribed calcium but fail to include Vitamin D and so fail to get full benefit from the calcium. Older adults often have Vitamin D deficiency. While this increases their risk for osteoporosis, Vitamin D deficiency may also affect the small bones in the ear and result in hearing loss.

Vitamin D is important for the absorption of other minerals including phosphorous and magnesium. Magnesium and calcium work closely together and both need Vitamin D to be effectively absorbed. Low levels of magnesium can result in problems with muscle spasms, nervous system function, and emotional state.

When Vitamin D levels are low, individuals may experience appetite loss and weight loss. Other potential side effects include diarrhea and insomnia. The relationship of Vitamin D to several other conditions is also being investigated. Some studies point to a connection between Vitamin D and high blood pressure. With decreased sun exposure, particularly in the winter, some people experience a form of depression called Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). Scientists found Vitamin D improved mood in some studies. Calcium buildup in arteries contributes to atherosclerosis, a significant cause of heart attack and strokes. This buildup may be a partial result of low Vitamin D.

Vitamin D supplements often use Vitamin D-2, also called ergocalciferol. Vitabase Vitamin D uses Vitamin D-3 or cholecalciferol. This is the same form of Vitamin D produced by the skin after exposure to the sun. Researchers consider it to be more bioactive than D-2.