Vitamin D
- Latin Name: Cholecalciferol
- Common Name: Vitamin D
- Family: Secosteroids
- Source: Sunlight exposure, fatty fish, fortified foods, supplements

What is Vitamin D?
Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin that keeps your bones and teeth strong by helping your body absorb calcium and phosphorus. It also supports muscle function and plays a key role in the immune system, helping your body stay resilient as you age.
Vitamin D Benefits
Supports Bone and Teeth Health
As we age, bone density tends to decline, increasing the risk of fractures and tooth loss. Vitamin D plays a crucial role in helping the body absorb calcium and phosphorus, two minerals essential for maintaining strong bones and teeth.
Improves Muscle Function
Muscle strength is fundamental to balance and mobility, especially as we get older. Vitamin D contributes to muscle function by supporting muscle contraction and strength, which can reduce the risk of falls and injuries.
Supports Immune Health
Aging can weaken immune function, leaving the body more susceptible to infections. Vitamin D supports the immune system by helping activate cells that fight off pathogens, promoting overall resilience.
Promotes Mood
Low Vitamin D levels have been linked to mood changes. Adequate Vitamin D may support mental health, potentially reducing the risk of mood disorders, helping you stay positive and engaged.
Supports Circulatory Health
Some research suggests that Vitamin D might help maintain heart health. This benefit could contribute to better circulation and overall cardiovascular wellness as you age.
PureHealth Research Products with Vitamin D
Vitamin D Dosage
For adults, the recommended daily intake of Vitamin D is about 600 IU (15 micrograms). However, as we age, our bodies produce less Vitamin D from sunlight, and it becomes harder to get enough from food. For adults over 70, the recommended daily dose increases to about 800 IU (20 micrograms) to support bone strength and help reduce the risk of fractures.
Vitamin D Food Sources
Certain foods provide Vitamin D, though it can be challenging to get enough from diet alone. Here are some key sources:
- Fatty Fish (Salmon, mackerel, sardines)
- Fortified Dairy Products (Milk, cheese, yogurt)
- Fortified Plant-Based Milks (Almond, soy, oat milk)
- Sun-Exposed Mushrooms (Maitake, shiitake mushrooms)
- Egg Yolks
The Difference Between Vitamin D vs D3
Is Vitamin D and D3 the same? Not exactly. Vitamin D is a general term for two types: D2 and D3.
- Vitamin D3 (Cholecalciferol) - Your body makes D3 when your skin is exposed to sunlight. It’s also in animal foods like fatty fish, liver, and egg yolks. D3 may raise Vitamin D levels more effectively than D2.
- Vitamin D2 (Ergocalciferol) - D2 comes from plant sources like sun-exposed mushrooms and is added to fortified foods, such as cereals and plant-based milks.
Both forms are available in supplements. D3 is often preferred for its potential to maintain stable Vitamin D levels. Check with your doctor for guidance on which form might suit you best.
Can Vitamin D Be Harmful
Too much vitamin D can be harmful, even though it's essential for your health. Taking excessive amounts can lead to hypercalcemia, meaning your blood has too much calcium. This can cause nausea, weakness, and kidney damage. In severe cases, it may result in calcium buildup in your arteries.
It's rare to get harmful levels of vitamin D from food or sunlight alone. However, high-dose supplements can increase your risk if you're not careful. To stay safe, talk to your doctor before starting or changing any vitamin D supplements.
Can Too Much Vitamin D Cause Low Iron?
While excessive vitamin D intake is rare, it can interfere with iron absorption in some cases. High levels of vitamin D may lead to increased calcium absorption, which can inhibit iron uptake, potentially contributing to lower iron levels over time.
Can You Produce Vitamin D While Wearing Sunscreen?
Wearing sunscreen significantly reduces your skin's ability to produce vitamin D, as it blocks UVB rays responsible for vitamin D synthesis. However, limited sun exposure without sunscreen or supplements can help maintain adequate vitamin D levels safely.
Can You Take Vitamin D at Night?
Yes, you can take vitamin D at night. The time of day doesn’t affect its effectiveness, but it's best to take it with a meal containing fat to improve absorption. Consistency is more important than timing for optimal benefits.
Does Vitamin D Have Histamine?
No, vitamin D does not contain histamine. However, it can indirectly affect histamine levels by supporting immune function. Some individuals with histamine intolerance may experience sensitivity to supplements, but vitamin D itself doesn't produce histamine.