What are the benefits of Vitamin D?
Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin that is unique because it is the only nutrient that can be synthesized by the skin from ultraviolet rays. However, most people do not produce enough Vitamin D from the sun due to various reasons. Vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol) is obtained from animal-based sources and is the body’s preferred form for raising and maintaining vitamin D levels in the body.1†
Vitamin D is an essential nutrient, meaning our body needs it every day. In addition to supporting muscle health, Vitamin D helps to regulate your body’s immune response. By aiding in the absorption of Calcium from food and supplements, Vitamin D also supports your bones and teeth.2,3†
Food Sources
Naturally, few foods contain Vitamin D. Fatty fish, such as salmon, mackerel, and sardines, are among the best natural sources of Vitamin D, while egg yolks and cheese also provide small quantities. Fortified foods, such as milk, milk substitutes, infant formula, orange juice, bread, and cereal, also provide a dietary source of Vitamin D.
Recommended Intake?
A common range of Vitamin D recommended by healthcare professionals is 1,000-5,000 IU per day for general health, although amounts up to 10,000 IU per day may be needed to address a Vitamin D deficiency.4 Your primary healthcare provider can assess your Vitamin D status through a simple blood test that measures the level of the serum biomarker 25-hydroxyvitamin D and then recommend a personalized supplement regimen to attain healthy Vitamin D levels.4
Recent research shows that a large majority (95%) of Americans do not consume enough Vitamin D through diet alone, and approximately one-third are Vitamin D deficient.5,6 Supplementing with Vitamin D3, the body’s preferred form, can help address this nutrient gap.†
