The Medicine Store in Basehor

Vitamin D is a term that refers to a group of five fat- soluble vitamins classified as secosteroids. Research suggests that vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol) is the most important form in humans. Healthy individuals produce much of their natural vitamin D transdermally via sunlight exposure. Oral supplementation of vitamin D comes in the form of D3. D3 is the most bioavailable form of vitamin D, which maximizes its absorption into the body.

Vitamin D3 is structurally similar to cholesterol. Calcitriol is the active form that the liver and kidneys convert. Calcitriol goes on to perform a multitude of roles in the body. In other words, it is particularly crucial for proper absorption of the minerals, calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphate and zinc. Calcitriol also supports and promotes bone growth and regeneration, as well as immune, cardiac and neuromuscular function.

Above all, much of the vitamin D we obtain comes from direct exposure to sunlight. However, spending a significant amount of time indoors away from sunlight, can lead to low levels of vitamin D in the body. And impairment of the vitamin D conversion pathways in the body can also lead to lower vitamin D levels. Certainly, it is crucial to obtain adequate amounts of vitamin D on a daily basis. A vitamin D deficiency can lead to a host of health issues including, rickets, Fanconi syndrome, autoimmune disease, osteoporosis and poor immune function. Vitamin D is one of the few nutrients for which serum levels can be drawn. A simple blood test for 25 (OH) hydroxy vitamin D can determine if an individual has adequate vitamin D stores or should consider supplementation.

Clinical Applications