Vitamin D Supplementation

Vitamin D, often called the “sunshine hormone,” plays a vital role in overall health. Many people in the Western world are deficient in it, but before deciding to supplement, it’s essential to test your blood levels (Calcifediol). This can help you understand whether supplementation is necessary and how much you need to reach optimal levels.

Key considerations include your current blood levels, lifestyle, UVB exposure, skin tone, BMI, and health conditions. Vitamin D3 (Cholecalciferol) is the preferred supplement form, as it is more effective than Vitamin D2. Individuals with higher BMIs or certain health conditions may require higher doses or specialized forms like Calcifediol or Calcitriol.

Vitamins

Vitamin D Unit Converter

Vitamin D (Cholecalciferol) used to be measured in micrograms (mcg). At one point, international units were introduced (IU). Today, either or both IU and mcg are found on supplement labels. Sometimes, it is beneficial to know the amount in IU and the amount in mcg. Especially when you want to use the correct ratio of several vitamins simultaneously. An important example in this context would be the combination of vitamin D and vitamin K. While Cholecalciferol ensures that there is enough calcium in the blood, vitamin K is involved in bringing calcium to the correct location (bones). Calcification of soft tissues such as cartilage and arteries is definitely something no one wants. Therefore, both vitamins should be used together. How much of each is a discussion for another time. However, once you decide and settle on a ratio between vitamins D and K, you can use the below converter to ensure that you use the correct amounts.