Interesting Facts About D3
Vitamin D3 is a hormone which is produced in response to UV exposure. When cholesterol is converted into D3 and is categorized as a vitamin when taken as a supplement.
- The closer to the equator you are, the higher your Vitamin D3 level will be
- Optimal levels are between 70-120
- Sunblock prevents the production of Vitamin D3
- Seasonal Affective Disorder can be improved/prevented by optimal levels of Vitamin D3 in the blood
- Two blood tests per year give an accurate means for determining how much to supplement: going into the fall/winter and entering spring/summer months
- Vitamin D2 is NOT D3. D2 is found in fortified products, milk, cheese, mushrooms, and other plants. D3, the animal derived form, is found to have the greatest benefits in the body.
Unusual Illnesses Related to D3 Deficiency:
- Erectile Dysfunction
- Prostate Cancer
- Asthma (especially in African Americans)
- Dementia and Alzheimer’s in older adults
Ways to Increase Vitamin D3:
- Exposure to sun’s rays for 20 minutes per day without sunscreen protection
- Supplement with D3