Vitamin D has dozens of vital functions in the body. Studies have found that it is related to a person’s risk of cancer, heart disease, fractures and falls, autoimmune diseases, influenza, type-2 diabetes, and depression. They’ve also found that supplementation can help improve thyroid disease and kidney function. Data shows a person has nearly double the risk of eczema and more severe eczema if they’re deficient.
Unfortunately, a large portion of North America is deficient, and even when reaching recommended intakes many continue to have extreme deficiencies. Certain individuals require a much higher dose of vitamin D to reach healthy levels.
Everyone should be tested before considering supplementing high doses of vitamin D. This is because high dose vitamin D can cause serious issues if blood amounts reach toxic levels. This can lead to nausea, vomiting, muscle weakness, pain, loss of appetite, dehydration, and kidney stones. In extreme cases it can lead to renal failure, calcification of arteries and heart valves, cardiac arrhythmias, and even death. That probably sounds really scary! However, under proper medical supervision a healthy level of vitamin D can be easily reached and maintained through careful monitoring through blood work and by individualized supplementation.
Reach out if you are interested in having your vitamin D levels tested. Always speak with a naturopath or other health professional before trying natural treatments.