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Vitamin D comes from three sources: the sun, food (e.g., milk, salmon), and dietary supplements. It is a fat-soluble vitamin, meaning that it can accumulate in the body because it is stored in the liver and fat tissues for long periods of time. It improves the absorption of calcium, a mineral that helps build and maintain healthy bones. It also improves the absorption of phosphorus, a mineral that is important for the development of bones and teeth.
There are two forms of vitamin D that are important to people: vitamin D2 (ergocalciferol) and vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol). Vitamin D2 comes from plants, while vitamin D3 is made in our skin when it is exposed to sunlight. Both forms of vitamin D can also be found in food.
Vitamin D is generally taken by mouth and is available in different forms that include chewable tablets, capsules, drops, and liquids.
Vitamin D is listed in both micrograms (µg) and international units (IU). 1 IU of vitamin D is the same as 0.025 µg of vitamin D2 and 0.025 µg of vitamin D3. Vitamin D in supplements are usually shown as IU.
Vitamin D is important in maintaining overall good health. Vitamin D helps develop and maintain bones and teeth. It also helps the body absorb and use calcium and phosphorus. Vitamin D taken with calcium is also used to help reduce the risk of developing osteoporosis.
Vitamin D is used as a supplement for people who do not receive enough vitamin D (e.g., breast-fed infants).
Your health care provider may have recommended this product for other conditions. Contact a health care provider if you have questions.
Studies have consistently shown that 800 IU of vitamin D lowers the risk of fractures of the spine, hip, wrist, and leg in adults, which are all complications of osteoporosis.
Vitamin D supplementation is beneficial for people with severe kidney failure who are receiving dialysis, as it can help prevent bone loss.
There is also a recent study showing that a higher dose of vitamin D supplementation may lower the risk of certain types of cancer. There appears to be a link between low vitamin D levels and colorectal cancer. However, there is limited evidence of benefit in taking vitamin D supplements for breast cancer and no evidence of benefit for prostate cancer. More research is needed to determine the effects of vitamin D on cancer.
You should ask a health care professional for information on how much vitamin D you should take, as it may be different depending on your age and what you are using it for.
Vitamin D is generally well-tolerated when taken in recommended doses. High doses of vitamin D over a long period of time can cause weakness, loss of appetite, dry mouth, and fatigue.
Medications that can interact with vitamin D include digoxin, carbamazepine, and phenytoin. Consult your health care provider if you have concerns.
Women who are pregnant or breast-feeding can safely take oral vitamin D supplements in recommended amounts. It is effective for infants who are breast-fed to be given vitamin D supplements, as they may not be receiving enough vitamin D.
Before taking any new medications, including natural health products, speak to your physician, pharmacist, or other health care provider. Tell your health care provider about any natural health products you may be taking.
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