Vitamin D

Vitamin D is a fat soluble vitamin that helps the body absorb calcium from the intestines more efficiently from food and calcium supplements. Vitamin D regulates the amount of calcium in our blood as well as bone metabolism and promotes bone mineralization.

Vitamin D in Food

Food sources of vitamin D are:

• Cheese
• Butter
• Margarine
• Fortified milk
• Fortified cereals
• Fish
• Oysters

The body makes vitamin D when skin is exposed to sunshine. Adequate amounts of vitamin D can be produced with 10 to 15 minutes of sunshine three times a week.

Vitamin D Supplements

Vitamin D can also be obtained in supplements. Vitamin D comes in various forms in supplements, these are:

• Cholecalciferol (vitamin D3)
• Ergocalciferol (vitamin D2)
• Calcitriol

Calcitriol is the form of vitamin D that is used to treat osteoporosis, both postmenopausal osteoporosis and corticosteroid-induced osteoporosis. Calcitriol is the most potent metabolite of vitamin D3.

Side Effects of Vitamin D Supplements

The most common side effects of vitamin D supplements are related to hypercalcemia. Hypercalcemia is a disorder where there is elevated calcium levels in the blood and can result in:

• nausea
• vomiting
• constipation
• anorexia
• headache
• thirst
• sweating
• excessive urination

The information provided is intended solely for general information and is NOT to replace advice from your physician and should NOT be relied upon for any diagnosis, treatment or cure. Always speak with your doctor before starting any new medications.