Integrative Health Blog

Vitamin D is one of those essential substances that we cannot function well without. 

It is common knowledge that the body makes its own Vitamin D when the skin is exposed to sunlight.  It is that form that we use most efficiently.  While Vitamin D supplements are great, “homemade” is better.  That is not a “free gift” to go into the sun at great lengths.  Small amounts are necessary; too much is not good, and you want to avoid that tan look. 

The Purpose of Vitamin D

Vitamin D plays a role in many body systems. 

We need it to help with calcium absorption, it is  considered by many to be protective against some cancers, helps regulate blood pressure and glucose metabolism.  Therefore is essential in the management of diseases like high blood pressure and diabetes.  Again, this is not saying that Vitamin D treats any of these issues but it is essential to maintenance and restoration of health. 

While there are toxicity issues if the Vitamin D level in the blood goes too high, it is not likely that it will happen.  The majority of patients I have seen recently are Vitamin D deficient.  You would need to take and absorb a lot of Vitamin D to get the blood levels up high enough to be toxic. 

Be reasonable, get your Vitamin D level checked, take the supplement if necessary, expose your forearms and lower legs (not your face) to the sun for 10 minutes a day and find joy in your life.  Joy makes you live longer.