Vitamin D & the Flu

Vitamin D increases your immunity to the flu.

There are two forms of Vitamin D, synthetic Vitamin D2 and natural Vitamin D3, that contribute to the human body’s supply of vitamin D. Vitamin D3 is thought to be at least four times more effective than Vitamin D2. Sources of Vitamin D include food, exposure to sunlight and dietary supplements.

Food

Salt water fish such as herring, salmon, sardines, and fish liver oils are good sources of Vitamin D3. Small quantities of Vitamin D3 are also derived from eggs, veal, beef, butter and vegetable oils. Foods such as milk, margarine, butter, cereals and chocolate mixes often have added Vitamin D.

Sunlight.
Twenty minutes of sun exposure will provide ten to twenty thousand IU (International Units) of Vitamin D. However, exposure to sunlight is controversial. Although an excellent and inexpensive source of Vitamin D, the American Academy of Dermatology continues to warn the public about the danger of sun exposure.

Dietary supplements.
I often advise well adults and adolescents to take 5,000 IU per day of Vitamin D3.

However, this is not a one-size fits all solution. Getting the right amount of Vitamin D is critical.

Monitoring your blood level is important to maintain the optimum level of Vitamin D. We use a quick and inexpensive test to measure a metabolite known as 25-hydroxyvitamin D, or 25(OH)D. Blood levels between 60 and 80ng/ml are ideal to maximize your personal immunity. Levels under 40 ng/ml indicate a Vitamin D deficiency and increased vulnerability. As Vitamin D is fat soluble, it is also possible to build up a toxic level over 90 ng/ml.

Set up an appointment to find discuss your personal needs and test your current Vitamin D level.

Call 503-492-9427
email jen@favoritedr.com