Summer is here, and when we think of sunny days, Vitamin D often comes to mind. Many associate it solely with sun exposure, yet there are several misconceptions surrounding this vital nutrient that need addressing. Let me shed some light on what Vitamin D truly offers and how you can ensure you’re getting enough of it.
The Misconception of Sunlight and Diet
A common belief is that our diet or sun exposure solely provides all the Vitamin D our body needs. While it’s true that your skin can generate Vitamin D when exposed to sunlight, many people I come across are surprisingly Vitamin D deficient—even if they spend ample time outdoors. It is, in fact, the most prevalent vitamin deficiency I observe in my clients’ lab results.
The Vital Roles of Vitamin D
Vitamin D is crucial for several reasons. It plays a significant role in helping your body absorb calcium, which is essential for building stronger and healthier bones. Beyond bone health, Vitamin D also boasts benefits for your immune system. If you’re frequently falling ill or struggling with allergies, low Vitamin D could be a contributing factor.
Furthermore, Vitamin D is powerful when it comes to your mood. Many of my patients who suffer from anxiety and depression often have low Vitamin D levels. Simply optimizing their Vitamin D levels has markedly improved their mental well-being.
Understanding Vitamin D Levels
The standard range for Vitamin D is between 30 and 100. However, if your Vitamin D level comes back at 32, you might be told it’s normal. I argue that 32 is merely a few points above insufficiency. For optimal health, I recommend maintaining Vitamin D levels between 70 and 100. This range not only boosts mood and strengthens bones but also enhances immune system functionality.
Vitamin D: The Vessel Approach
At Vessel, we offer two ways to improve your Vitamin D levels. We provide Vitamin D shots, recommended every one to three months depending on your current levels, which are a fantastic option for rapid improvement. Alternatively, we provide oral Vitamin D supplements, which I favor. However, it’s important to ensure that your Vitamin D3 supplement is paired with Vitamin K2. A plain over-the-counter Vitamin D pill is not enough. The combination with Vitamin K2 enhances the effectiveness, which is why we carry this formulation here at Vessel.
Paying attention to your Vitamin D levels could drastically improve various aspects of your health, from bones to immune function to mood. At Vessel Longevity, we’re dedicated to helping you achieve the best possible health outcomes. So, consider getting your Vitamin D levels checked and talk to us about how we can help you on your wellness journey.