Dr John Pridgeon
General and Aesthetic Practitioner
M.B., Ch.B. (UCT), D.A. (SA), Dip. Aesth. Med. (AAAM), ACLS, ATLS.
Iodine is a mineral that is essential for the proper functioning of the thyroid gland, which in turn plays a vital role in metabolism, growth and development, and brain function. While most people in the United States get enough iodine from their diet, it is important to be aware of the potential health risks of iodine deficiency, especially for pregnant women and young children.
Iodine is essential for the production of thyroid hormones, which regulate metabolism, growth and development, and brain function. Adequate iodine intake is crucial for:
The recommended daily intake of iodine for adults is 150 micrograms (mcg). Pregnant and breastfeeding women need slightly more iodine, 220 mcg and 290 mcg, respectively. Children need varying amounts of iodine depending on their age.
The best sources of iodine are:
The symptoms of iodine deficiency can vary depending on the severity of the deficiency. Some common symptoms include:
If you are concerned about your iodine intake, talk to your doctor. They can do a blood test to check your iodine levels and recommend the best way to get enough iodine in your diet.
Introduction: Vitamin C transcends its reputation as a mere remedy for the common cold. This robust antioxidant, prevalent in a myriad of fruits and vegetables, offers substantial benefits for your health. Whether it’s fortifying your immune response, combating inflammation, or safeguarding your brain and heart health, Vitamin C stands as a formidable ally in your health journey.
Vitamin C is renowned for its myriad health advantages, including immune enhancement, cardiac wellness, increased iron absorption, and more. It’s a vital nutrient for tissue growth, repair, and cellular protection against free radicals—unstable molecules that can harm cells.
Since our bodies can’t produce Vitamin C, we need to obtain it through diet or supplements. Rich sources include citrus fruits, berries, broccoli, cabbage, peppers, potatoes, and tomatoes. Supplements come in various forms like capsules, chewable tablets, and powders.
This article aims to delve into the benefits, applications, and sources of Vitamin C. It will also touch upon Vitamin C deficiency symptoms, potential side effects, safety measures, and interactions with other medications or supplements.
Note on Dietary Supplements: In the United States, the FDA doesn’t regulate dietary supplements for safety and efficacy. Quality checks are often performed by independent organisations like USP, Consumer Labs, or NSF International, ensuring ingredient accuracy. However, this does not guarantee the supplement’s effectiveness or universal safety. Consult healthcare professionals before starting any supplements, as they can interact negatively with certain medications or other supplements.
Understanding Vitamin C: Vitamin C, also known as L-ascorbic acid, is an indispensable nutrient that must be sourced from diet or supplements. It is found in various foods, including oranges, peppers, and kiwi. Research underscores its general health benefits, but specific uses in treating or preventing certain health conditions remain scientifically uncertain.
The efficacy of supplement usage should be assessed and endorsed by healthcare professionals. Vitamin C has been proposed for treating or preventing a range of conditions like the common cold, COVID-19, arthritis, and Alzheimer’s disease. However, solid evidence backing most of these claims is limited.
Medical Consultation is Key: Supplement use should be personalised based on individual health concerns. Before beginning a supplement regime, consultation with a qualified healthcare professional is essential.
Consult healthcare providers for appropriate supplement dosages. Most people can obtain sufficient Vitamin C through diet. Smokers and individuals diagnosed with a Vitamin C deficiency may require higher intakes.
Excessive Vitamin C intake can cause side effects like heartburn, nausea, and diarrhoea. The tolerable upper intake level (TUL) should be adhered to avoid adverse effects.
Vitamin C is abundant in many diets, and supplements are available in various forms. It’s essential to consider Vitamin C from food sources first, but supplements can help achieve adequate levels when dietary intake is insufficient.
While marketed for various conditions, Vitamin C’s primary role is in addressing deficiencies. As an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent, it has potential uses in heart disease prevention, gout treatment, immune support, and more. Always consult healthcare providers before initiating any supplement regimen to ensure safety and appropriateness.
Remember the sun’s warm caress on your skin after a chilly winter? That blissful feeling isn’t just a fleeting indulgence – it’s a powerful catalyst for your inner champion, Vitamin D3. This sun-kissed nutrient packs a punch, far exceeding its traditional role as a bone strengthener. It’s your body’s silent guardian, bolstering your immune system, regulating your mood, and potentially safeguarding your heart health.
Vitamin D3 isn’t just another vitamin on the shelf; it’s a superhero hiding in plain sight. Imagine it like a microscopic maestro, conducting the orchestra of calcium absorption to build strong, resilient bones. But its talents extend far beyond the skeletal symphony. This versatile warrior strengthens your immune defences, helping you fend off seasonal sniffles and keeping illness at bay. It even acts as a mood modulator, chasing away winter blues and promoting a sunny disposition. And research suggests it might even be your heart’s secret guardian, potentially lowering blood pressure and reducing the risk of cardiovascular woes.
This article is your passport to unlocking the power of Vitamin D3. We’ll delve into its hidden benefits, explore diverse sources for fueling your internal sunshine, and navigate the best ways to harness its potential for optimal health. So, buckle up, grab your virtual shades, and prepare to bask in the radiant world of Vitamin D3 – your very own sun-kissed superhero just waiting to be unleashed.
Vitamin D3, also known as cholecalciferol, offers several health benefits, notably aiding the body in calcium absorption. Natural sources of vitamin D3 include fish, beef liver, eggs, and cheese. Additionally, the skin can produce vitamin D3 when exposed to the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays. Vitamin D3 supplements are available for overall health improvement and for addressing or preventing vitamin D deficiencies.
Vitamin D3 is one of the two primary forms of vitamin D, distinguished from vitamin D2 (ergocalciferol) by its structure and natural sources. This article explores the functions of vitamin D supplements and highlights the specific advantages and limitations of vitamin D3, along with other key sources.
Referred to as calciferol, vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin essential for various bodily functions. It’s often called the “sunshine vitamin” due to the body’s ability to produce vitamin D3 after sun exposure. Its primary roles include supporting bone growth and remodelling, regulating muscle contractions, and aiding in converting blood glucose into energy.
Insufficient vitamin D intake can lead to several health issues, including delayed growth in children, rickets, osteomalacia (loss of bone minerals) in adults and adolescents, and osteoporosis in adults.
The National Institutes of Health suggest that individuals from 1 to 70 years old should consume 600 international units (IUs) of vitamin D daily from all sources. Adults over 70 require 800 IUs each day.
A vitamin D deficiency, diagnosed through blood tests, occurs when intake doesn’t meet the body’s needs. However, routine vitamin D screening in symptom-free adults is not universally recommended. Symptoms of deficiency might include muscle and bone pain, muscle weakness, a history of fractures, and muscle twitching. If vitamin D deficiency is suspected, consult a healthcare provider for blood testing.
Vitamin D deficiency can result from conditions that limit fat absorption and vitamin D breakdown in the gut. Risk factors include celiac disease, Crohn’s disease, cystic fibrosis, gastric bypass surgery, liver disease, malnutrition, obesity, and ulcerative colitis. Older individuals, those who are housebound, or have dark skin are also at higher risk.
Nearly half the global population is affected by vitamin D deficiency. Both vitamin D2 and D3 are used for treatment, with D3 often being preferred.
Both forms are chemically similar and well-absorbed in the gut, but they differ in their sources. Vitamin D2 is found in UV-exposed mushrooms, while vitamin D3 is present in animal-based foods and synthesised in the skin under UVB radiation. Vitamin D3 has better bioavailability and a longer half-life in the body, making it more efficient in raising blood vitamin D levels.
Historically, vitamin D3 supplements were derived from lanolin in sheep’s wool, making them unsuitable for those avoiding animal products. However, some manufacturers now produce vitamin D3 from algae or lichen.
Apart from treating deficiencies, vitamin D3 may offer health benefits for individuals with high blood pressure or osteoporosis. Studies indicate that vitamin D3 can significantly reduce systolic blood pressure in certain populations and may also reduce the incidence of hip fractures and increase bone mass density in older individuals.
Despite certain claims, there is no conclusive evidence that vitamin D3 supplements can reduce the risk of cancer, heart disease, or stroke. However, they are generally safe when taken in prescribed doses.
To meet the recommended daily allowance of vitamin D, sources include animal-based foods, dietary supplements, and sun exposure. Food should be the primary source, with a variety of options available like beef liver, cheese, fortified cereals, and fatty fish. Supplements are available in various forms and dosages, and should be discussed with a healthcare provider to determine the most suitable dose. Sun exposure also contributes to vitamin D3 production, though it carries the risk of skin cancer.
While generally safe, excessive intake of vitamin D3 can lead to hypervitaminosis D, disrupting the balance of minerals and causing hypercalcemia. Symptoms can include stomach upset, nausea, vomiting, constipation, bone pain, muscle weakness, and an increased risk of fractures. Vitamin D toxicity is rare today, but it’s important to adhere to recommended dosages.
Vitamin D, essential for calcium and phosphate absorption, is crucial for bone and muscle strength, immune function, and potentially other health benefits. Vitamin D3 is more efficient than D2 in bodily usage. Sources include food, supplements, and sun exposure, but it’s important to manage intake to avoid excessive levels.
Iodine is a mineral that is essential for the proper functioning of the thyroid gland, which in turn plays a vital role in metabolism, growth and development, and brain function. While most people in the United States get enough iodine from their diet, it is important to be aware of the potential health risks of iodine deficiency, especially for pregnant women and young children.
Iodine is essential for the production of thyroid hormones, which regulate metabolism, growth and development, and brain function. Adequate iodine intake is crucial for:
The recommended daily intake of iodine for adults is 150 micrograms (mcg). Pregnant and breastfeeding women need slightly more iodine, 220 mcg and 290 mcg, respectively. Children need varying amounts of iodine depending on their age.
The best sources of iodine are:
The symptoms of iodine deficiency can vary depending on the severity of the deficiency. Some common symptoms include:
If you are concerned about your iodine intake, talk to your doctor. They can do a blood test to check your iodine levels and recommend the best way to get enough iodine in your diet.
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Introduction: Vitamin C transcends its reputation as a mere remedy for the common cold. This robust antioxidant, prevalent in a myriad of fruits and vegetables, offers substantial benefits for your health. Whether it’s fortifying your immune response, combating inflammation, or safeguarding your brain and heart health, Vitamin C stands as a formidable ally in your health journey.
Vitamin C is renowned for its myriad health advantages, including immune enhancement, cardiac wellness, increased iron absorption, and more. It’s a vital nutrient for tissue growth, repair, and cellular protection against free radicals—unstable molecules that can harm cells.
Since our bodies can’t produce Vitamin C, we need to obtain it through diet or supplements. Rich sources include citrus fruits, berries, broccoli, cabbage, peppers, potatoes, and tomatoes. Supplements come in various forms like capsules, chewable tablets, and powders.
This article aims to delve into the benefits, applications, and sources of Vitamin C. It will also touch upon Vitamin C deficiency symptoms, potential side effects, safety measures, and interactions with other medications or supplements.
Note on Dietary Supplements: In the United States, the FDA doesn’t regulate dietary supplements for safety and efficacy. Quality checks are often performed by independent organisations like USP, Consumer Labs, or NSF International, ensuring ingredient accuracy. However, this does not guarantee the supplement’s effectiveness or universal safety. Consult healthcare professionals before starting any supplements, as they can interact negatively with certain medications or other supplements.
Understanding Vitamin C: Vitamin C, also known as L-ascorbic acid, is an indispensable nutrient that must be sourced from diet or supplements. It is found in various foods, including oranges, peppers, and kiwi. Research underscores its general health benefits, but specific uses in treating or preventing certain health conditions remain scientifically uncertain.
The efficacy of supplement usage should be assessed and endorsed by healthcare professionals. Vitamin C has been proposed for treating or preventing a range of conditions like the common cold, COVID-19, arthritis, and Alzheimer’s disease. However, solid evidence backing most of these claims is limited.
Medical Consultation is Key: Supplement use should be personalised based on individual health concerns. Before beginning a supplement regime, consultation with a qualified healthcare professional is essential.
Consult healthcare providers for appropriate supplement dosages. Most people can obtain sufficient Vitamin C through diet. Smokers and individuals diagnosed with a Vitamin C deficiency may require higher intakes.
Excessive Vitamin C intake can cause side effects like heartburn, nausea, and diarrhoea. The tolerable upper intake level (TUL) should be adhered to avoid adverse effects.
Vitamin C is abundant in many diets, and supplements are available in various forms. It’s essential to consider Vitamin C from food sources first, but supplements can help achieve adequate levels when dietary intake is insufficient.
While marketed for various conditions, Vitamin C’s primary role is in addressing deficiencies. As an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent, it has potential uses in heart disease prevention, gout treatment, immune support, and more. Always consult healthcare providers before initiating any supplement regimen to ensure safety and appropriateness.
Remember the sun’s warm caress on your skin after a chilly winter? That blissful feeling isn’t just a fleeting indulgence – it’s a powerful catalyst for your inner champion, Vitamin D3. This sun-kissed nutrient packs a punch, far exceeding its traditional role as a bone strengthener. It’s your body’s silent guardian, bolstering your immune system, regulating your mood, and potentially safeguarding your heart health.
Vitamin D3 isn’t just another vitamin on the shelf; it’s a superhero hiding in plain sight. Imagine it like a microscopic maestro, conducting the orchestra of calcium absorption to build strong, resilient bones. But its talents extend far beyond the skeletal symphony. This versatile warrior strengthens your immune defences, helping you fend off seasonal sniffles and keeping illness at bay. It even acts as a mood modulator, chasing away winter blues and promoting a sunny disposition. And research suggests it might even be your heart’s secret guardian, potentially lowering blood pressure and reducing the risk of cardiovascular woes.
This article is your passport to unlocking the power of Vitamin D3. We’ll delve into its hidden benefits, explore diverse sources for fueling your internal sunshine, and navigate the best ways to harness its potential for optimal health. So, buckle up, grab your virtual shades, and prepare to bask in the radiant world of Vitamin D3 – your very own sun-kissed superhero just waiting to be unleashed.
Vitamin D3, also known as cholecalciferol, offers several health benefits, notably aiding the body in calcium absorption. Natural sources of vitamin D3 include fish, beef liver, eggs, and cheese. Additionally, the skin can produce vitamin D3 when exposed to the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays. Vitamin D3 supplements are available for overall health improvement and for addressing or preventing vitamin D deficiencies.
Vitamin D3 is one of the two primary forms of vitamin D, distinguished from vitamin D2 (ergocalciferol) by its structure and natural sources. This article explores the functions of vitamin D supplements and highlights the specific advantages and limitations of vitamin D3, along with other key sources.
Referred to as calciferol, vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin essential for various bodily functions. It’s often called the “sunshine vitamin” due to the body’s ability to produce vitamin D3 after sun exposure. Its primary roles include supporting bone growth and remodelling, regulating muscle contractions, and aiding in converting blood glucose into energy.
Insufficient vitamin D intake can lead to several health issues, including delayed growth in children, rickets, osteomalacia (loss of bone minerals) in adults and adolescents, and osteoporosis in adults.
The National Institutes of Health suggest that individuals from 1 to 70 years old should consume 600 international units (IUs) of vitamin D daily from all sources. Adults over 70 require 800 IUs each day.
A vitamin D deficiency, diagnosed through blood tests, occurs when intake doesn’t meet the body’s needs. However, routine vitamin D screening in symptom-free adults is not universally recommended. Symptoms of deficiency might include muscle and bone pain, muscle weakness, a history of fractures, and muscle twitching. If vitamin D deficiency is suspected, consult a healthcare provider for blood testing.
Vitamin D deficiency can result from conditions that limit fat absorption and vitamin D breakdown in the gut. Risk factors include celiac disease, Crohn’s disease, cystic fibrosis, gastric bypass surgery, liver disease, malnutrition, obesity, and ulcerative colitis. Older individuals, those who are housebound, or have dark skin are also at higher risk.
Nearly half the global population is affected by vitamin D deficiency. Both vitamin D2 and D3 are used for treatment, with D3 often being preferred.
Both forms are chemically similar and well-absorbed in the gut, but they differ in their sources. Vitamin D2 is found in UV-exposed mushrooms, while vitamin D3 is present in animal-based foods and synthesised in the skin under UVB radiation. Vitamin D3 has better bioavailability and a longer half-life in the body, making it more efficient in raising blood vitamin D levels.
Historically, vitamin D3 supplements were derived from lanolin in sheep’s wool, making them unsuitable for those avoiding animal products. However, some manufacturers now produce vitamin D3 from algae or lichen.
Apart from treating deficiencies, vitamin D3 may offer health benefits for individuals with high blood pressure or osteoporosis. Studies indicate that vitamin D3 can significantly reduce systolic blood pressure in certain populations and may also reduce the incidence of hip fractures and increase bone mass density in older individuals.
Despite certain claims, there is no conclusive evidence that vitamin D3 supplements can reduce the risk of cancer, heart disease, or stroke. However, they are generally safe when taken in prescribed doses.
To meet the recommended daily allowance of vitamin D, sources include animal-based foods, dietary supplements, and sun exposure. Food should be the primary source, with a variety of options available like beef liver, cheese, fortified cereals, and fatty fish. Supplements are available in various forms and dosages, and should be discussed with a healthcare provider to determine the most suitable dose. Sun exposure also contributes to vitamin D3 production, though it carries the risk of skin cancer.
While generally safe, excessive intake of vitamin D3 can lead to hypervitaminosis D, disrupting the balance of minerals and causing hypercalcemia. Symptoms can include stomach upset, nausea, vomiting, constipation, bone pain, muscle weakness, and an increased risk of fractures. Vitamin D toxicity is rare today, but it’s important to adhere to recommended dosages.
Vitamin D, essential for calcium and phosphate absorption, is crucial for bone and muscle strength, immune function, and potentially other health benefits. Vitamin D3 is more efficient than D2 in bodily usage. Sources include food, supplements, and sun exposure, but it’s important to manage intake to avoid excessive levels.
And discover how Dr. Pridgeon can help you in your vitamin journey!
Iodine is a mineral that is essential for the proper functioning of the thyroid gland, which in turn plays a vital role in metabolism, growth and development, and brain function. While most people in the United States get enough iodine from their diet, it is important to be aware of the potential health risks of iodine deficiency, especially for pregnant women and young children.
Iodine is essential for the production of thyroid hormones, which regulate metabolism, growth and development, and brain function. Adequate iodine intake is crucial for:
The recommended daily intake of iodine for adults is 150 micrograms (mcg). Pregnant and breastfeeding women need slightly more iodine, 220 mcg and 290 mcg, respectively. Children need varying amounts of iodine depending on their age.
The best sources of iodine are:
The symptoms of iodine deficiency can vary depending on the severity of the deficiency. Some common symptoms include:
They can do a blood test to check your iodine levels and recommend the best way to get enough iodine in your diet.
Vitamin C transcends its reputation as a mere remedy for the common cold. This robust antioxidant, prevalent in a myriad of fruits and vegetables, offers substantial benefits for your health. Whether it’s fortifying your immune response, combating inflammation, or safeguarding your brain and heart health, Vitamin C stands as a formidable ally in your health journey.
Vitamin C is renowned for its myriad health advantages, including immune enhancement, cardiac wellness, increased iron absorption, and more. It’s a vital nutrient for tissue growth, repair, and cellular protection against free radicals—unstable molecules that can harm cells.
Since our bodies can’t produce Vitamin C, we need to obtain it through diet or supplements. Rich sources include citrus fruits, berries, broccoli, cabbage, peppers, potatoes, and tomatoes. Supplements come in various forms like capsules, chewable tablets, and powders.
Note on Dietary Supplements: In the United States, the FDA doesn’t regulate dietary supplements for safety and efficacy. Quality checks are often performed by independent organisations like USP, Consumer Labs, or NSF International, ensuring ingredient accuracy. However, this does not guarantee the supplement’s effectiveness or universal safety. Consult healthcare professionals before starting any supplements, as they can interact negatively with certain medications or other supplements.
Vitamin C, also known as L-ascorbic acid, is an indispensable nutrient that must be sourced from diet or supplements. It is found in various foods, including oranges, peppers, and kiwi. Research underscores its general health benefits, but specific uses in treating or preventing certain health conditions remain scientifically uncertain.
The efficacy of supplement usage should be assessed and endorsed by healthcare professionals. Vitamin C has been proposed for treating or preventing a range of conditions like the common cold, COVID-19, arthritis, and Alzheimer’s disease. However, solid evidence backing most of these claims is limited.
Supplement use should be personalised based on individual health concerns. Before beginning a supplement regime, consultation with a qualified healthcare professional is essential.
Consult healthcare providers for appropriate supplement dosages. Most people can obtain sufficient Vitamin C through diet. Smokers and individuals diagnosed with a Vitamin C deficiency may require higher intakes.
Excessive Vitamin C intake can cause side effects like heartburn, nausea, and diarrhoea. The tolerable upper intake level (TUL) should be adhered to avoid adverse effects.
Vitamin C is abundant in many diets, and supplements are available in various forms. It’s essential to consider Vitamin C from food sources first, but supplements can help achieve adequate levels when dietary intake is insufficient.
While marketed for various conditions, Vitamin C’s primary role is in addressing deficiencies. As an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent, it has potential uses in heart disease prevention, gout treatment, immune support, and more. Always consult healthcare providers before initiating any supplement regimen to ensure safety and appropriateness.
Remember the sun’s warm caress on your skin after a chilly winter? That blissful feeling isn’t just a fleeting indulgence – it’s a powerful catalyst for your inner champion, Vitamin D3. This sun-kissed nutrient packs a punch, far exceeding its traditional role as a bone strengthener. It’s your body’s silent guardian, bolstering your immune system, regulating your mood, and potentially safeguarding your heart health.
Vitamin D3 isn’t just another vitamin on the shelf; it’s a superhero hiding in plain sight. Imagine it like a microscopic maestro, conducting the orchestra of calcium absorption to build strong, resilient bones. But its talents extend far beyond the skeletal symphony. This versatile warrior strengthens your immune defences, helping you fend off seasonal sniffles and keeping illness at bay. It even acts as a mood modulator, chasing away winter blues and promoting a sunny disposition. And research suggests it might even be your heart’s secret guardian, potentially lowering blood pressure and reducing the risk of cardiovascular woes.
This article is your passport to unlocking the power of Vitamin D3. We’ll delve into its hidden benefits, explore diverse sources for fueling your internal sunshine, and navigate the best ways to harness its potential for optimal health. So, buckle up, grab your virtual shades, and prepare to bask in the radiant world of Vitamin D3 – your very own sun-kissed superhero just waiting to be unleashed.
Vitamin D3, also known as cholecalciferol, offers several health benefits, notably aiding the body in calcium absorption. Natural sources of vitamin D3 include fish, beef liver, eggs, and cheese. Additionally, the skin can produce vitamin D3 when exposed to the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays. Vitamin D3 supplements are available for overall health improvement and for addressing or preventing vitamin D deficiencies.
Vitamin D3 is one of the two primary forms of vitamin D, distinguished from vitamin D2 (ergocalciferol) by its structure and natural sources. This article explores the functions of vitamin D supplements and highlights the specific advantages and limitations of vitamin D3, along with other key sources.
Referred to as calciferol, vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin essential for various bodily functions. It’s often called the “sunshine vitamin” due to the body’s ability to produce vitamin D3 after sun exposure. Its primary roles include supporting bone growth and remodelling, regulating muscle contractions, and aiding in converting blood glucose into energy.
Insufficient vitamin D intake can lead to several health issues, including delayed growth in children, rickets, osteomalacia (loss of bone minerals) in adults and adolescents, and osteoporosis in adults.
The National Institutes of Health suggest that individuals from 1 to 70 years old should consume 600 international units (IUs) of vitamin D daily from all sources. Adults over 70 require 800 IUs each day.
A vitamin D deficiency, diagnosed through blood tests, occurs when intake doesn’t meet the body’s needs. However, routine vitamin D screening in symptom-free adults is not universally recommended. Symptoms of deficiency might include muscle and bone pain, muscle weakness, a history of fractures, and muscle twitching. If vitamin D deficiency is suspected, consult a healthcare provider for blood testing.
Vitamin D deficiency can result from conditions that limit fat absorption and vitamin D breakdown in the gut. Risk factors include celiac disease, Crohn’s disease, cystic fibrosis, gastric bypass surgery, liver disease, malnutrition, obesity, and ulcerative colitis. Older individuals, those who are housebound, or have dark skin are also at higher risk.
Nearly half the global population is affected by vitamin D deficiency. Both vitamin D2 and D3 are used for treatment, with D3 often being preferred.
Both forms are chemically similar and well-absorbed in the gut, but they differ in their sources. Vitamin D2 is found in UV-exposed mushrooms, while vitamin D3 is present in animal-based foods and synthesised in the skin under UVB radiation. Vitamin D3 has better bioavailability and a longer half-life in the body, making it more efficient in raising blood vitamin D levels.
Historically, vitamin D3 supplements were derived from lanolin in sheep’s wool, making them unsuitable for those avoiding animal products. However, some manufacturers now produce vitamin D3 from algae or lichen.
Apart from treating deficiencies, vitamin D3 may offer health benefits for individuals with high blood pressure or osteoporosis. Studies indicate that vitamin D3 can significantly reduce systolic blood pressure in certain populations and may also reduce the incidence of hip fractures and increase bone mass density in older individuals.
Despite certain claims, there is no conclusive evidence that vitamin D3 supplements can reduce the risk of cancer, heart disease, or stroke. However, they are generally safe when taken in prescribed doses.
To meet the recommended daily allowance of vitamin D, sources include animal-based foods, dietary supplements, and sun exposure. Food should be the primary source, with a variety of options available like beef liver, cheese, fortified cereals, and fatty fish. Supplements are available in various forms and dosages, and should be discussed with a healthcare provider to determine the most suitable dose. Sun exposure also contributes to vitamin D3 production, though it carries the risk of skin cancer.
While generally safe, excessive intake of vitamin D3 can lead to hypervitaminosis D, disrupting the balance of minerals and causing hypercalcemia. Symptoms can include stomach upset, nausea, vomiting, constipation, bone pain, muscle weakness, and an increased risk of fractures. Vitamin D toxicity is rare today, but it’s important to adhere to recommended dosages.
Vitamin D, essential for calcium and phosphate absorption, is crucial for bone and muscle strength, immune function, and potentially other health benefits. Vitamin D3 is more efficient than D2 in bodily usage. Sources include food, supplements, and sun exposure, but it’s important to manage intake to avoid excessive levels.
And discover how Dr. Pridgeon can help you in your vitamin journey!
