I eat healthy and take multivitamins every day. Why do I need to add Vitamin D supplements to my daily intake? These are the thoughts going through my head when the doctor informed me I was low in vitamin D. I searched the Web to find out if my deficiency in Vitamin D could be why I do not experience optimal health. After doing my research, it was apparent that some of my health issues were the result of low vitamin D.
Vitamin D can be absorbed from sun exposure, however, you might have sensitive skin and choose not to succumb to the sun’s rays. Other ways to get Vitamin D are from dairy products, orange juice, cheese, milk and fish. My allergies prohibit consumption of all of these foods. Along with my allergies, other symptoms I experience are altered mood swings, glucose intolerance and an auto-immune malfunction. All of these illnesses can be the result of a Vitamin D deficiency.
Based on my health, it was in my best interest to start taking Vitamin D. I found a great source of information on the Web, especially from Dr. Mercola. It is recommended that you take D3 and not D2. Vitamin D2 or ergocalciferol comes from plant foods and D3 or cholecalciferol comes from animal foods. Even though your health issues fall under the category of Vitamin D deficiency, don’t assume just taking the supplement will cure your ailments. First, visit your doctor and confirm they are giving you the correct blood test, 25(OH)D also called 25-hydroxyvitamin and, if needed, the doctor will advise on how much Vitamin D to take.
Keep in mind, some people also have digestive issues. If that is the case, choose a liquid Vitamin D and not a pill or capsule. You want to increase your chances of absorbing as much of the vitamin as possible. I started out taking Vitamin D pills by Standard Process, Cataplex D. However, because of my poor digestive system, I switched to Metagenics D3 Liquid. I consume one drop a day and I have seen improvements. I plan to continue the Metagenics for at least six months and stay in tune with my immune system as my health improves.
We often take medications for ailments; when all we might need is a little more sun, enriched foods and additional vitamins to add to our healthy food intake. I am so glad that I took my doctor’s advice, because as I get older, I want to increase my quality of life. Perhaps it’s time to visit the doctor and check your level of Vitamin D.
Resource:
www.drmercola.com
www.metagenics.com
