In recent years, it has become clear that vitamin D deficiency is a common health concern. Studies show that this can occur in up to 40–50% of the population. Vitamin D deficiency can cause accelerated bone loss, increased fractures in the elderly, an increased risk of catching the flu and other infections, and an increased risk of developing cancer and certain autoimmune diseases.
Recently, researchers have confirmed a new definition of what is considered vitamin D deficiency. For optimal health, our blood work (25-hydroxyvitamin D/25-OH-D) should be at a level of 75 to 250 nmol/L, anything less than this is considered a deficiency. This is a test that either your medical doctor or naturopathic doctor can do for you.
Throughout most of human history, vitamin D has been obtained almost always from the skin (sun exposure), since typical diets contain little or no vitamin D. However, our skin takes 48 hours to convert the precursor that sunlight exposure gives us into the actual vitamin D form. So if most people are showering within 48 hours, then very little vitamin D gets converted into our bloodstream. The risk vs. benefits of sun exposure should be assessed on an individual basis.
Supplementation is a preferred way to increase our vitamin D levels, especially if you are sensitive to the sun or if you have a job where you are indoors most of the day. The best option is to take a vitamin D supplement that is combined with vitamin K2. This combination reduces your risk of plaque formation in your vessels. Therefore, reducing your risk for stroke or heart attacks. Wise D3 + K2 has the perfect combination for absorption and reducing the risk of plaque formation. It is also in an MCT coconut oil form, making it a hypoallergenic and highly absorbable product.
