Top 16 Best Vitamin D Supplements
UpdatedOctober 23, 2024
Vitamin D is actually one of the most important nutrients for our health and well-being. While natural food sources are the main source of vitamin D, vitamin D supplements can be recommended when one cannot get enough sunlight or when life restricts one’s time in the sun. So with the best vitamin D supplement, you have everything you want.
Nevertheless, it may be challenging to determine which vitamin D supplement is the best from the many available choices, but don’t worry! From multivitamin supplements for kids that would help them grow strong to vitamin D to help your body function properly, we’ve got you covered. Here’s a guide that will help you when you are searching for the right vitamin D supplement for you. Let's get started!
What is Vitamin D?
Vitamin D is known as the sunshine vitamin, it is a fat soluble vitamin that is a part of a group of compounds referred to as secosteroids. It is present in some foods in its natural state including fatty fish, egg yolk, beef liver, cod liver oil, dairy products that are fortified, and mushrooms.
It can also be synthesized in the body through the skin when one is exposed to the sun. There are different types of vitamin D, mainly vitamin D2 (ergocalciferol) and vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol). The body transforms both forms into an active state prior to using them.
Vitamin D deficiency is one of the most widespread nutrient deficiencies in the world. According to Harvard Medical School, vitamin D is not very abundant in foods as we get older and therefore the deficiency is common.
Most of the time, vitamin D deficiency is linked to increased risks of poor musculoskeletal health such as rickets, falls, osteomalacia, and poor muscle strength.
Vitamin D supplements may be prescribed in instances where a person cannot receive adequate sun exposure or get enough vitamin D from their diet.
Top 3 Best Vitamin D Supplements
Momentous Vitamin D Supplement, Capsules
Momentous Vitamin D Supplement, Capsules
Start a new and better life with Momentous Vitamin D Capsules. Designed to fit perfectly into your lifestyle, without artificial ingredients, and rigorously tested for potency and safety. Rediscover brilliance, increase energy, and embrace the wellness transformation process. It’s not just a complement; it’s the key to your healthy life.
Get the energy boost and embrace the health benefits of Momentous Vitamin D Supplement Capsules, the ultimate in vitamin supplements. Made to enhance your well-being, these capsules are the epitome of perfection.
With a combination of vitamin D that was carefully selected for its quality, Momentous offers a comprehensive pack for your well-being. Learn the joys of obtaining high levels of Vitamin D for stronger bones, healthy immune systems, and increased energy.
Pros
- Momentous capsules boast a superior blend of vitamin D, carefully selected to deliver maximum benefits for your health.
- Elevate your overall well-being as Momentous Vitamin D supports not just bone health but also fortifies your immune system for year-round resilience.
- Seamlessly incorporate these capsules into your daily routine. No hassle, just a simple and effective step towards a healthier you.
Cons
- Results may vary, as with any supplement. It's essential to listen to your body and allow time for the full spectrum of benefits to unfold.
- Some users may find the standard capsule size challenging to swallow. Consider personal preferences and comfort.
- While the benefits are comprehensive, noticeable improvements may take time. Consistency is key to unlocking the full potential.
These capsules easily become a part of our lifestyle, which makes this supplement very convenient for daily use. Lacking artificial ingredients and having undergone third-party testing, Momentess focuses on your well-being.
New Vitamin D Supplement Capsules revolutionize the market of vitamin D supplements. Transform your energy, strengthen your defense, and adopt a comprehensive life-enhancing regimen. It is not only a pill taken daily; it is a promise to your health.
Nutricost Vitamin D3 5,000 IU, 240 Softgels
Nutricost Vitamin D3 5,000 IU, 240 Softgels
If you need a good Vitamin D3 supplement, it will be useful to consider Nutricost Vitamin D3 5,000 IU, 240 Softgels as well. The fact that it is a non-GMO and gluten-free formula could mean that this product has some benefits that are in accordance with your fitness objectives.
Pros:
- High Potency: Each softgel contains a substantial 5,000 IU of Vitamin D3, ensuring a potent dosage for your daily needs.
- Non-GMO and Gluten-Free: Nutricost prioritizes quality, providing a supplement free from genetically modified organisms and gluten, catering to various dietary preferences and restrictions.
- Softgel Form: The softgel format enhances ease of consumption, making it a convenient addition to your daily routine.
Cons:
- Quantity: The package contains 240 softgels, which might be more than needed for those seeking a smaller supply.
- May Require Consistent Use: Like many supplements, it may take some time and consistent use before noticeable results are experienced.
- Individual Preferences: While the softgel form is convenient, some individuals might prefer alternative methods of supplementation.
Nutricost Vitamin D3 is good for individuals who want to achieve their desired levels of vitamin D quickly because each softgel contains a highly concentrated 5,000 IU. That it is not genetically modified and does not contain gluten makes it fit well with the new generation of health and organic supplements. However, for those who want to have a limited amount or choose other forms of supplementation, personal choice should be taken into account.
When it comes to supporting our bone health, heart health, and immune system, Designs for Health Vitamin D Supreme stands out as one of the best options.
Pros
- High dose of Vitamin D3 for optimal bone and immune health
- Includes 2,000 mcg of Vitamin K2 (MK-4) for heart support
- Enhanced with GG for better absorption
- No fillers or unnecessary additives
Cons
- The dose might be too high for those who already get ample sunlight
- Only 30 capsules per bottle, which may require frequent reordering
Designs for Health Vitamin D Supreme contains 5,000 IU of Vitamin D3, which helps support calcium absorption for stronger bones, and 2,000 mcg of Vitamin K2 (MK-4) to aid in directing calcium to the bones instead of arteries, supporting cardiovascular health. The added GG (geranylgeraniol) improves absorption, making the supplement more effective. It's gluten-free, non-GMO, and contains no harmful additives.
We noticed a significant improvement in our energy levels and overall wellness after using this supplement for a few weeks. It’s particularly helpful during the winter months or for those of us with limited sun exposure. The combination of Vitamin D3 and K2 in this product works well for maintaining both bone and heart health, making it a great addition to our daily routine.
If you are looking for a highly effective vitamin D3 supplement to enhance your health status, Utzy Natural D3 5,000 may be intriguing to you. This product contains 5000 IU of vitamin D3 per serving and aims to promote the health of bones, immune system and energy levels.
Pros
- High potency with 5,000 IU of vitamin D3 per serving
- Promotes bone health and calcium absorption
- Supports immune function for overall well-being
Cons
- May not be suitable for those with hypersensitivity to vitamin D
- Requires consistent use to observe optimal results
The most defining characteristic of Utzy Natural D3 5,000 is its strength: each serving contains 5,000 IU of vitamin D3. This concentration is especially useful for those who want to improve their bone density and calcium metabolism. The supplement also supports the immune system and therefore may be of interest to consumers who want nutritional support for general health.
Nevertheless, it is important to remember that people with certain allergies to vitamin D, or those on specific drugs, should seek medical advice before starting on this supplement. Also, it is crucial to make it a routine since sometimes, it might take some time to see the best outcome.
Get the best of sunshine with Atlantis Nutrition Vitamin D3 Gummies – the perfect way to have optimal Vitamin D intake. All natural in taste, these gummies can make supplementing as fun as it can be.
Made from high-quality substances, these gummies contain a large amount of Vitamin D3, which contributes to the strengthening of bones, as well as the immune and nervous systems. Enjoy the juicy orange flavor as you nourish your body with vitamin D.
Pros
- Atlantis Nutrition Vitamin D3 Gummies offer a tasty way to elevate your Vitamin D levels, turning supplementation into a delightful experience.
- Packed with a powerful dose of Vitamin D3, these gummies contribute to strong bones and a robust immune system.
- Say goodbye to pills and capsules. These gummies provide a convenient and enjoyable way to meet your Vitamin D needs.
Cons
- While they bring sweetness to your taste buds, these gummies do contain sugar. Individuals monitoring their sugar intake should be mindful.
- Currently available in orange flavor, those seeking variety may find the options limited.
The strong orange taste combined with clear positive effects on the state of bones and immune system makes these gummies our new daily must-have. This is not just candy for your taste buds, but rather candy for your entire body. Take Atlantis Nutrition Vitamin D3 Gummies dietary supplement and let the sunshine vitamin add some color to your life. Boost your health with this delicious and nutritious Vitamin D supplement.
Sports Research Vitamin D3 5000 IU with Coconut MCT Oil
Sports Research Vitamin D3 5000 IU with Coconut MCT Oil
If you want a Vitamin D supplement that enhances muscular health and immune strength, Sports Research Vitamin D3 5000 IU with Coconut MCT Oil is a good choice.
Pros:
- High potency
- Enhanced absorption
- Promotes health benefits including improved bone health, immune function, mood regulation, and reduced risk of certain diseases.
Cons:
- Possible overdosing
- Not suitable for everyone
- Potential allergen: Coconut MCT oil may trigger allergic reactions in individuals with coconut allergies.
The human body needs Vitamin D to enhance its functioning, and today’s world reduces people’s opportunities to get under direct sunlight. This is one supplement that has greatly helped me in enhancing the quality of life and energy levels of the body. When taken together, Vitamin D3 and Coconut MCT Oil guarantee optimal absorption, which can lead to strong bones, a healthy immune system, and even improved mood.
What makes this product quite outstanding is the fact that it utilizes Coconut MCT Oil as the carrier. Apart from helping with the absorption of Vitamin D3, it has other uses in the body including enhancing brain activity and managing body weight. We also like the rationale behind this kind of approach as we realize that each of these ingredients has its role in improving the efficacy of the supplement. Regardless of whether we are athletes who want to fine-tune our performance or everyone else who wants to live healthier lives, Sports Research Vitamin D3 5000 IU with Coconut MCT Oil is now a regular part of our diet.
In our practice, it has been found that for this supplement to work effectively, one has to be very consistent. We have integrated it into our daily routine and have observed improvements in energy, the strength of our immune systems, and the health of our skin. It just feels good knowing that our bodies are receiving the necessary nutrients, especially during some seasons when it is not safe to venture out under the sun. Sports Research has not disappointed in any way and has provided a stellar product that fits our health and wellness needs which placed it as a must-have supplement for us.
NatureWise Vitamin D3 5000 IU Mini Softgel, 360 Count
NatureWise Vitamin D3 5000 IU Mini Softgel, 360 Count
NatureWise Vitamin D3 Mini Softgel comes with a 5000 IU dosage which is very efficient in boosting muscle function and immune system. Besides, the supplement is in a mini softgel form which makes it easily swallowed especially by those with problems swallowing large pills.
NatureWise Vitamin D3 Mini Softgel employs cold-pressed olive oil as the medium for its vitamin. Extra virgin olive oil is a healthy fat that commonly enhances vitamin D intake. This means that when I incorporate this supplement into my body, it is fully consumed to the advantage of my body. In addition, this supplement is free from GMOs and gluten.
It also provides a 1-year supply of vitamin D in a 360-count soft gel form of supplement. This great deal helps me so much so that I don’t have to purchase my vitamin supplement frequently. Furthermore, with a one-year stock, there are no breaks in my vitamin D supplement intake whatsoever.
Pros
- It uses cold-pressed olive oil as the carrier for its vitamin D3.
- It is a non-GMO and gluten-free supplement.
- It promotes healthy muscle function and immune support
- It comes in a mini softgel form, which is easy to swallow.
- It provides a generous 360-day supply.
Cons
- It's not suitable for vegans or vegetarians.
Nature's Bounty Vitamin D, 2000 IU, Softgels, 350 Ct.
Nature's Bounty Vitamin D, 2000 IU, Softgels, 350 Ct.
Nature’s Bounty 350 ct. Sofgels have 2000 IU of vitamin D, which is quite a strong addition to increase vitamin D in the body. In addition, these softgels provide a powerful dose of this vital vitamin to assist in enhancing my body’s immunity. It also aids in the absorption of calcium, an element that is crucial in the development of strong bones.
Nature’s Bounty Vitamin D 2000 IU comes in a bottle of 350 softgels so you can use this for several months. It is quite a large amount; therefore, it is affordable and easy to purchase making it a cost-effective product.
As for the Nature’s Bounty Vitamin D 2000 IU formula, it is non-GMO and does not contain gluten, sugar, artificial colors, or sweeteners. Others are vegetable glycerin, corn oil, soybean oil, and gelatin.
Pros
- It provides a generous 350-day supply.
- It's easy to swallow and incorporate into your daily routine.
- It is a non-GMO, gluten- and sugar-free supplement.
- It provides immune system support.
- The supplement promotes optimal vitamin D levels in the body.
Cons
- What dosage works well for one person might not be suitable for another.
Nature Made Vitamin Dietary Supplement, D3 2,000 IU (50 mcg), 220 Tablets.
Nature Made Vitamin Dietary Supplement, D3 2,000 IU (50 mcg), 220 Tablets.
Nature Made Vitamin D3 2000 IU is one of the best dietary supplements, with each bottle containing 220 tablets, which gives 220 days of supply. This is sufficient stock to cater to my needs before I go and restock again. Furthermore, these tablets can be easily swallowed.
The supplement provides an effective dose of vitamin D and D3, containing 2000 IU or 50 mcg per tablet. Another advantage of this dietary supplement is that it helps to strengthen teeth and bones. Calcium in the supplement is also helpful in the absorption of Vitamin D3 for proper development of the teeth and bones.
But that is not all – nature-made Vitamin D3 (2000 IU) supports muscle health. It assists in making sure that muscles work as they should, promoting strength and general muscle functioning. The other advantage of the supplement is that it contributes to enhancing the immune system of my body.
Please remember that the dosage might be different and depends on specific conditions and the recommendations of your health care provider.
Pros
- The supplement supports multiple aspects of health.
- It offers a long supply duration.
- The tablets are easy to swallow.
- It provides an adequate vitamin D3 dosage.
Cons
- It has a limited ingredient profile.
Carlyle Vitamin D Supplement, 10000 IU, 400 Softgels
Carlyle Vitamin D Supplement, 10000 IU, 400 Softgels
The Carlyle Vitamin D 10000 IU Supplement bottle contains 400 soft gels of these important nutrients, which means less frequent shopping for these vitamins. Moreover, the supplement comes in softgel form and contains 10000IU of vitamin D per serving, which is suitable for those who need more vitamin D compared to the average.
This supplement is non-GMO and gluten-free which makes it ideal for people with sensitive stomachs or those who cannot consume certain types of foods. It is easy to swallow and it does not have any ill aftertaste. The smooth surface and good softgel design make them easy to consume and fit into one’s normal supplement regime.
Carlyle Vitamin D 10000 IU Supplement can be used to enhance the strength of bones, improve the immune system, and regulate mood. As such, by taking the supplement, I can effectively attend to these aspects of health and quality of life and experience the advantages of having healthy levels of vitamin D.
Pros
- It is a non-GMO and gluten-free supplement.
- The size ensures a long-lasting supply.
- It's easy to swallow and doesn't have an unpleasant aftertaste.
- The supplement offers a high potency of 10000 IU.
Cons
- It's not vegan or vegetarian-friendly.
Garden of Life (60 Count) Raw Vitamin Code D3 5000IU Organic
Garden of Life (60 Count) Raw Vitamin Code D3 5000IU Organic
Garden of Life Vitamin Code D3 50000IU contains vitamins in its organic form and comes with 60 capsules per bottle. You will have a ready two-month supply of vitamin D nutrients. Further, the supplement is derived from natural, whole foods and therefore I am assured of getting vitamin D3 in its most absorbable state. This makes the supplement suitable for people who desire natural and unprocessed vitamin D products.
The supplement comes with a potency of 5000IU per capsule. This is important in facilitating the absorption of calcium, promoting bone health and bone mineralization. It also keeps muscles and teeth healthy, contributing to musculoskeletal integrity. Also, the supplement can boost the immune system.
Regarding dosage, it is important to remember that it may be different depending on the individual case and a doctor’s recommendations. It is therefore advisable to talk to your doctor who will guide you on the best dosage depending on your situation.
Pros
- It features organic and raw ingredients.
- It contains a potent dose of 5000 IU of vitamin D3.
- The supplement supports a healthy immune system.
- It provides a two-month supply of vitamin D3.
Cons
- It has a higher price tag because of its organic and raw ingredient sourcing.
Mommy's Bliss Vitamin D Drops, Organic Baby, 100 Servings
Mommy's Bliss Vitamin D Drops, Organic Baby, 100 Servings
Mommy's Bliss Organic Baby Vitamin D drops provide essential bone development support. Made with high-quality, organic ingredients, it's free from additives and chemicals. Conveniently add to formula, breast milk, or nipple. User-friendly packaging ensures precise dosage and long-lasting supply. Get the best for your little one today!"
It is an essential nutrient for bone health and growth and is provided in Mommy’s Bliss Organic Baby. It helps to make sure that my baby gets enough vitamin D, especially during those early months when his bones are formed. Moreover, this dietary supplement contains all-natural and organic ingredients of the highest quality. It does not include added preservatives and unnecessary chemical products.
This liquid vitamin D supplement helps and fosters my kids’ defense mechanisms from childhood. It is best taken by newborns and can be easily integrated into the kid’s schedule for the day. These drops can be given with the formula, mixed with breast milk, or given directly on the nipple making it easier to ensure that the baby gets the right vitamin D dosage.
Moreover, these vitamin D drops are packaged in a fairly easy-to-use manner as well. It comes with a dropper that ensures that the patient receives the right dosage without having to estimate. Furthermore, with a pack of 4, I am confident that I will always have it with me without having to replenish it frequently. Also, the product is affordably priced given that each box provides 100 servings.
Pros
- It is made from high-quality, organic ingredients.
- It boosts the healthy growth and development of infants and toddlers.
- It is a versatile vitamin D supplement for infants and toddlers.
- It offers great value for money.
Cons
- Some babies might have difficulty accepting the taste of the drops.
Zarbee's Vitamin D Drops, Baby & Toddler Liquid Supplement
Zarbee's Vitamin D Drops, Baby & Toddler Liquid Supplement
Zarbee’s Vitamin D Drops contain vitamin D at a concentration of 400 IU per serving. It is also applicable for newborns and older hence can be used for infants as well as toddlers. When mixed with breast milk formula, or any food, the vitamin drops do not alter the taste and can be easily administered.
These dietary supplements are not laden with unnecessary additives, artificial colors, or flavors. The emphasis on purity and simplicity creates trust in the quality of the product among consumers. This usually makes me confident that my baby is getting a safe and effective supplement.
It is convenient that the original container of Zarbee’s Vitamin D Drops contains a dropper syringe. It helps in providing a clean and precise dosing system, which helps in managing the administration part. Additionally, the dropper syringe also enables me to accurately count the number of drops needed and ensure that my baby is receiving the correct amount at all times.
Pros
- It allows easy administration and versatility.
- It comes with a dropper syringe, ensuring accurate and mess-free dosing.
- It's suitable for infants and toddlers of various ages.
- It's convenient to incorporate into your kids' daily routine.
Cons
- Additional supplementation is still recommended.
Carlson's Baby Vitamin D Drops, Baby's Super Daily D3, 400 IU
Carlson's Baby Vitamin D Drops, Baby's Super Daily D3, 400 IU
Carlson-Baby’s Super Daily D3 contains 400 IU of vitamin D per serving. This helps me feed my baby with the right proportions of these nutrients that are so important in his or her development. Further, the vitamin D supplement is a vegetarian product that does not contain any artificial flavors or preservatives. This means my baby can get the required nutrients as a baby without having to consume extras such as sugar.
These vitamin D drops can be easily dissolved in breast milk, formula, and even water. This makes it easy for me to add the drops into my baby’s feed as this will help me ensure that the baby gets the right amount of vitamin D every now and then.
Included with the supplement is a dropper which makes it easy to measure the amount of the drops to be administered. And of course, the 365 drops provide a whole year’s intake. This convenience of picking the child’s school results in time saving especially for working parents.
Pros
- A liquid vitamin D supplement allowing easy administration and versatility
- It is made from a vegetarian formula.
- It offers a full year's supply, making it a cost-effective and convenient option.
- It is an unfavorable supplement.
Cons
- Some babies might have difficulty accepting the taste of the unflavored drops.
Nordic Naturals Baby's Vitamin D3, 365 Servings
Nordic Naturals Baby's Vitamin D3, 365 Servings
Nordic Naturals Baby Vitamin D3 has a dropper pack and contains 400 IU of vitamin D3 for every drop to support the baby’s immune system, bones, and sleep. It is non-GMO and vegetarian-approved, which makes it perfectly suitable for households that have special diets.
It is very easy to give Vitamin D drops because they can be mixed with breast milk, formula, or food and it does not alter the taste or texture. This makes it convenient to incorporate into my kid’s daily routine. They serve me for the entire year; a bottle contains 365 servings. This helps me avoid the need to purchase it frequently and guarantee that my kids are taking the right amount of vitamin D3.
While Nordic Naturals Baby’s Vitamin D3 has its advantages, it is also important to note its disadvantages. This product may be bitter for some infants to take especially the unflavored one which may need creativity and time to administer it.
Pros
- It helps your baby establish healthy sleep habits.
- It is made from a vegetarian and non-GMO formula.
- It offers an impressive 365 servings.
- It enhances your baby's defense against infections and illnesses.
Cons
- Some infants might have difficulty accepting the taste of the unflavored drops.
MaryRuth Organics Vitamin D3 Kids Supplement with Vitamin K2
MaryRuth Organics Vitamin D3 Kids Supplement with Vitamin K2
The MaryRuth Organics Vitamin D3 K2 Drops is ideal for toddlers who require more calcium absorption and strong bones. This supplement is made from vitamin D3 and vitamin K-2 which are well known to reinforce bone health when taken together. This combination makes this supplement unique from other other independent vitamin D supplements.
Another bonus for parents is that MaryRuth Organics Vitamin D3 K2 supplement is vegan, non-GMO, and gluten-free. In addition, the supplement comes in liquid form; it can easily be mixed with food or beverages, and thus can easily be incorporated into my children’s schedules. For my kids to avoid taking pills.
Moreover, the one fl oz size ensures that my kid is provided with enough of the supplement without having to restock for quite some time. For this reason, it is cheap to use because it does not require frequent replenishment.
Pros
- It comes in liquid form for easy administration.
- It is made of a vegan, non-GMO, and gluten-free formula.
- Combining vitamin D3 and vitamin K-2 provides comprehensive support for overall health.
- The one fl oz size is enough to last for an extended period.
Cons
- Administering precise doses can be challenging
What Are the Common Benefits of Vitamin D Supplements?
1. Supports Bones and Teeth Health
Vitamin D commonly enhances and builds teeth and bones. It also assists in maintaining adequate phosphorus and calcium levels which are required for proper mineralization of the teeth and bones.
In other words, calcium, which is good for your teeth and bones, becomes useless without vitamin D. You cannot have strong teeth and healthy bones and they become brittle if you lack vitamin D.
Vitamin D and calcium will prevent osteoporosis, a condition that leads to a reduced rate and quality of bone formation.
2. Enhances Immune Function
Vitamin D plays a crucial role in the functioning of the immune system and prevention of autoimmune diseases. It helps stimulate immune cells and increases their effectiveness, thus enhancing the body’s ability to fight infections. In addition, some research has shown that vitamin D may help decrease the chances of contracting inflammatory diseases.
Lacking vitamin D, people get infections and autoimmune diseases such as type 1 diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, and inflammatory bowel disease.
3. Muscle Strength and Function
Vitamin D plays an important role in the health of muscles and their ability to remain strong. It assists in avoiding muscle loss and deterioration and contributes to muscle protein formation and utilization.
Deficiency of vitamin D in your body leads to weakness of muscles and can lead to falls which is a major problem that leads to disability and high mortality rates in elderly people. Older people may get some benefits from vitamin D supplements because these products can reduce the chance of bone fractures and falls.
4. Improves Mood and Mental Health
The sun and the rays can lighten up the mood and so can the Vitamin D supplements. Vitamin D receptors are found in areas of the brain that are associated with the regulation of one’s mood. Vitamin D helps to boost the mood and deficiency of vitamin D makes a person more prone to SAD and depression. Therefore, the use of vitamin D supplements could alleviate the symptoms of such diseases.
5. Reduces the Risk of Chronic Diseases
Deficiency of Vitamin D has been associated with increased prevalence of non-communicable diseases such as diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, colon, breast, and prostate infections, and autoimmune diseases. Taking Vitamin D supplements may also be useful in lowering the occurrence or severity of these conditions.
6. Supports Weight Loss
Obese people are more likely to have low vitamin D levels which implies using more vitamin D can assist in weight loss.
Conversely, people who consume a daily vitamin D and calcium supplement may shed more pounds than those taking an inactive supplement. This is because vitamin D and calcium suppress appetite.
However, it is important to note that while vitamin D aids in weight loss, ensure that you undertake a proper weight loss regime that involves proper diet, exercise, and a healthy lifestyle.
Side Effects of Vitamin D Supplements
1. Vitamin D Toxicity
Different guidelines exist for sufficiency of vitamin D, but data suggest that 30-60 ng/mL is probably optimal. Taking extremely high amounts of vitamin D for a long time leads to hypervitaminosis D which is also known as vitamin D toxicity.
Hypervitaminosis D signs and symptoms may include anorexia, vomiting, nausea, fatigue, polyuria, polydipsia, constipation, and confusion. However, hypervitaminosis D is very uncommon and it is characterized by excessive intake of high doses of vitamin D supplements for a long time which is more than 10,000 IU per serving.
For how many vitamin D supplements you should take, we suggest seeking the advice of a healthcare professional.
2. Digestive Issues
Some people get side effects like bloating, stomach aches, poor appetite, diarrhea or constipation after they have taken vitamin D supplements. Most of the time, the side effects of the above medicines are mild and temporary. Another important thing to consider is the fact that not all individuals manifest similar symptoms.
In case the symptoms are not relieved, or they get worse, it is advised to seek medical help.
3. Allergic Reactions
It has been reported that vitamin D supplementation may cause allergic reactions but in rare cases. Possible reactions could be skin rash, itching, hives and even breathing difficulties. We suggest that you consult a doctor as soon as possible if you get any of these signs.
4. Interference with Certain Medical Conditions
It is important to note that vitamin D supplements can sometimes interact with some medicines and health conditions. For example, patients diagnosed with lymphoma, sarcoidosis, hyperparathyroidism, or granulomatous diseases should not take these dietary supplements as they may exacerbate the conditions.
5. Kidney Problems
The use of vitamin D supplements in large amounts may pose the risk of causing harm to the kidneys in the long run. This is because, normally, kidneys are supposed to convert vitamin D into its active form, and taking more vitamin D supplements may lead to straining of the kidneys and formation of kidney stones or possibly kidney failure.
Factors to Consider Before Buying the Best Vitamin D Supplement
1. Ingredients
When choosing the right vitamin D supplements you ought to consider certain ingredients. If you are a vegan or a vegetarian then the individual components of the supplement must be derived from animal-based products. On the other hand if you have a preference for organic or non GMO foods and products then use supplements that bear such labels.
Furthermore, if you have allergies or other sensitive issues, do not take supplements that contain compounds or chemicals that cause the allergies including gluten among others.
2. Types of Vitamin D Supplements
Vitamin D supplements usually come in three main types: liquids, capsules, or chewable.
I). Liquid Supplements
These supplements are in bottles with droppers and the dosage is in drops. These are ideal for individuals who have a problem with swelling capsules like toddlers and older people. In addition, these supplements can be incorporated into foods and beverages.
ii). Capsules
These supplements are mostly liquid based but are encapsulated in a gelatin capsule. They are advised to be taken by people who do not enjoy the plain taste of liquid vitamins.
iii). Chewables
There is also chewable vitamin D if you do not enjoy the idea of liquid or capsule supplements. They are also known as gummy vitamin supplements and are meant to be sweet. These are suitable for children who do not like taking vitamin D drops or those who cannot swallow tablets. They are also suitable for children since they can be taken as candies and hence, it becomes easier to administer them.
3. Forms of Vitamin D
As mentioned earlier, vitamin D has two primary forms: Vitamin D2 and vitamin D3. Vitamin D2 is derived from plants and the common sources include wild mushrooms. On the other hand, vitamin D3 is obtained from sunbathing or from animal products or supplements.
Vitamin D2 is often prescribed by a doctor while vitamin D3 can be purchased without a prescription. This is because vitamin D2 has a potency of more than fifty thousand international units while vitamin D3 has comparatively lower quantities. Moreover, D3 is better absorbed in the body than D2.
4. Vitamin D Dosage
Excess or deficiency of vitamin D in the body is not healthy for you. Follow the NIH's recommended daily allowance (RDA) for your intake and upper limit. Alternatively, you might want to seek advice from your health care provider.
- Elderlies above 70 years old: 800 IU to 4,000 IU
- Adults between 19 & 70 years of age: 600 IU to 4,000 IU
- Teenagers between 14 & 18 years of age: 600 IU to 4,000 IU
- Kids between 1 & 13 years of age: 600 IU to 2,500 IU
- Infants between birth and one year old: 400 IU to 1,000 IU
- Breastfeeding and pregnant women: 600 IU to 4,000 IU
This recommended dietary allowance helps avoid shortfalls rather than adding value to the body. Hence, if a person has a likelihood of having low vitamin D levels, for example, they may need to take larger servings of vitamin D.
Moreover, it is important to note that the RDA is for the total intake between supplements and foods. If you get vitamin D in other ways such as by exposure to sunlight or foods rich in vitamin D, you may require a different dosage of your vitamin supplement.
5. Third-Party Testing
When choosing the proper vitamin D supplement, always check the third-party verification. Choose a vitamin D supplement brand that tests its products for purity, potency, and quality through third parties. Look for certifications by well-known organizations including NSF International or the USP (United States Pharmacopeia).
Information about third-party certifications can be found on the packaging of the supplement or on the manufacturer’s website. If you see certifications pointing to independent testing the product has been tested.
However, even though third-party testing gives reliability to the product, it does not provide assurance for efficacy or even to each consumer. It is therefore advised to seek the advice of a healthcare provider or a registered nutritionist before using any new vitamin D supplement to know whether or not it meets your needs and circumstances.
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