How to Best Absorb Vitamin D Supplements

Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin and is necessary for the proper absorption of calcium and the development of bones and teeth. It is also important for blood clotting and optimal function of the thyroid gland.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Vitamin D

1. Take vitamin D with calcium.

2. Avoid taking mineral oil or products containing mineral oil. Mineral oil can interfere with vitamin D absorption.

3. Avoid overuse of antacids. They will interfere with absorption. If you have perpetual digestive problems, consult with your doctor.

4. Check your medications. Some can interfere with absorption of vitamin D, such as cortisone and other steroids.

5. Be careful if you are taking diuretic drugs. They can upset the calcium/vitamin D ratio in your body.

6. Assess your need for vitamin D if you have liver problems, gallbladder disease or gastrointestinal disorders. All of these can interfere with vitamin D absorption.

Tips & Warnings

• Vitamin D is found in several foods, including egg yolks, fish liver oil, dandelion greens, sweet potatoes and salmon.
• Herbs that contain vitamin D include alfalfa, horsetail, nettle and parsley.
• Dosage is 400 IU daily.
• For a good natural dose - forgo sunscreen for at least 15 minutes, 3 times a week. The sun is the best and easiest way to get vitamin D. Go out before 10 a.m. and after 2 p.m., when the rays are not so strong.
• Do not take high doses of vitamin D unless under the direction of a health practitioner. Vitamin D can be toxic in high doses. Do not supersede recommended dose.

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on 11/16/2009 Check your blood Vit D levels 25 (OH)D to be 50-70 ng/ml and check your calcium levels as high Vit D raises calcium, avoid too much of calcium in blood. The article suggests to supplement with 400IU/day. Levels as high as 5,000 or more were found to be safe.
Pubmed.gov describes a study where researchers gave 5,000 IU/day for 12 mo to elderly without side effects. Check out Vitamin D cousel too.

[sylvia-gogo]

on 1/17/2009 I agree with afrenchsoul about many of us with low levels of vit d in our system but it is wrong to post that there is no toxicity issues. Try looking at Dr. Mercola's website where he has posted a good deal about the benefits and problems with vit. d. Testing levels with a credible lab is essential.
Try this link as a start:
http://articles.mercola.com/sites/articles/archive/2008/06/28/if-you-choose-to-take-oral-vitamin-d-how-much-should-you-take.aspx
Good health to all...