You are my Sunshine....Vitamin D!

Vitamin D

Vitamin D aka the “sunshine” vitamin is an essential vitamin found throughout the body and in certain foods. This vitamin is needed for many areas to maintain a healthy and strong body, because it helps strengthen bones, the immune system, and communication between the brain and muscles. When you go outside your skin is exposed to sunlight and helps make vitamin D naturally. The sun’s UVB rays hit cholesterol in the skin that provides energy for vitamin D to be synthesized.

How it works

Vitamin D is a building block for bone health and strength. This is because it helps the body absorb calcium from sources of supplementation or diet. Low vitamin D can lead to decreased bone density. Vitamin D is also important for muscle function because those nerves need it to transport messages between the brain and every body part. Vitamin D is also an integral component of a strong immune system.

Signs of low Vitamin D

❖ Fatigue, bone pain

❖ Muscle weakness/aches/cramps

❖ Mood changes, depression

Medications that ↓ Vitamin D

❖ Anticonvulsants (ex: phenytoin)

❖ Corticosteroids (ex: prednisone)

❖ PPIs (ex: omeprazole)

❖ Statins (ex: atorvastatin)

❖ Diuretics (ex: furosemide)

Uses

❖ Immune regulation

❖ Osteoporosis prevention (+ calcium)

❖ Seasonal depression

Dosing

Recommended daily intake of Vitamin D for adults is at least 600 – 800 IU. Different forms are available, such as Vitamin D2 (plant based) and Vitamin D3 (animal based). Both are great options, although Vitamin D3 may increase overall Vitamin D levels better. Take with a meal, preferably with some fat.

Side Effects

Usually none, but may experience:

❖ GI distress

❖ Kidney stones

❖ Increased calcium

Drug Interactions

❖ Orlistat

❖ Aluminum hydroxide

❖ Diuretics (ex: hydrochlorothiazide)

Foods

Common foods that contain Vitamin D:

❖ Salmon, tuna, egg yolks

❖ Milk, cheese, yogurt

❖ Fortified cereals, orange juice

Sniteman Pharmacy Statement

Vitamin D is important for everyday functioning, but do not go seeking the sun! Supplements are better options to get the recommended daily intake of Vitamin D.