Are you vitamin D deficient? Have no idea? Perhaps it is time to discuss this topic with your healthcare provider about getting your Vitamin D levels checked.
Increased Risk for Diabetes
Low levels of vitamin D have been linked to an increased risk of type 2 diabetes. One study found that obese people without diabetes had higher vitamin D levels than those that had diabetes. According to a study conducted in Spain, vitamin D levels were more closely connected to blood glucose levels than BMI. (1)
Are you vitamin D deficient? Have no idea? Perhaps it is time to discuss this topic with your healthcare provider about getting your Vitamin D levels checked.
The Sunlight Vitamin
One of the ways to receive vitamin D is through sunlight. We are getting less and less outdoor time and more time in front of computers and TVs. Maybe try taking a walk outside today, to help absorb some vitamin D.
Are you vitamin D deficient? Have no idea? Perhaps it is time to discuss this topic with your healthcare provider about getting your Vitamin D levels checked.
Vitamin D and Food
Vitamin D is also found in Egg yolks, cheese, and fatty fishes like salmon, mackerel, and tuna. Six oz of salmon, for example, provides more than 600 IU of vitamin D. Foods are fortified with the vitamin and they include dairy products, orange juice, soy milk, and cereals. (2)
Are you vitamin D deficient? Have no idea? Perhaps it is time to discuss this topic with your healthcare provider about getting your Vitamin D levels checked.
Two Forms of Vitamin D
Vitamin D2 (ergocalciferol) is found in dietary vegetables such as mushrooms and oral supplements. Vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol) is obtained through skin exposure to ultraviolet B (UVB) sunlight, fatty fish, and oral supplements. (3)
Are you vitamin D deficient? Have no idea? Perhaps it is time to discuss this topic with your healthcare provider about getting your Vitamin D levels checked.
How Much Vitamin D do I Need Per Day?
People aged from 1 to 70 require 600 IU/day, and individuals 71 and older require 800 IU/day. Depending on your vitamin D levels you may need more per day. (2)
Are you vitamin D deficient? Have no idea? Perhaps it is time to discuss this topic with your healthcare provider about getting your Vitamin D levels checked.
How are Vitamin D Levels Accessed?
Vitamin D levels are obtained through blood work. The specific test is vitamin D 25 (OH) D blood test. The normal range is 25-80 ng/ml: vitamin D insufficiency is <30 ng/ml and deficiency is considered <25 ng/ml (3). Discuss this important topic with your healthcare provider and whether or not you should have your levels tested.
