Vitamin D Deficiency by Molly Hawke, MD

Limited exposure to sunlight is not only helpful for people's mental health, but also for their body's physical health

What is Vitamin D?
Vitamin D is often called the “sunshine vitamin.” You can get Vitamin D from food or supplements, but exposure to the sun stimulates Vitamin D production in the skin.

Why is Vitamin D important?
Vitamin D serves several important functions in the body including: promoting calcium absorption, promoting bone health, and reducing inflammation. We also know that serotonin rises with exposure to bright light and falls with decreased sun exposure. Researchers estimate that 50 percent of the general population is at risk of Vitamin D deficiency. This percentage rises in higher-risk populations such as the elderly and those with darker skin.

How do you know if your Vitamin D level is in the right range?
We recommend testing every six months, as people vary widely in their response to UV exposure or oral Vitamin D supplementation. It is ideal to test in August (highest point) and again in February (lowest point).

How to supplement?
Recommended supplementation for Vitamin D is individualized. If one is unable to obtain limited exposure to sunlight, a vitamin supplement is helpful. A daily supplement of 2000 U daily may be enough for one person, while another may need to take up to 50,000 U per week to restore his/her level to normal.