As a naturopath and nutritionist deeply immersed in holistic health, I’ve come to appreciate the multifaceted nature of Vitamin D and its profound impact on our well-being. Today, let’s embark on a journey to understand the diverse forms of Vitamin D and the unique benefits of incorporating calcifediol, a lesser-known but potent variant.
According to the Australian Health Direct website, more than 1 in 3 Australians are low in vitamin D. Considering that we are the sunburnt country whats going on?
Forms of Vitamin D:
Vitamin D2 (ergocalciferol):
This variant, primarily sourced from plants like UV-exposed mushrooms, is often fortified in foods and supplements. However, its efficacy pales in comparison to Vitamin D3.
Vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol):
Synthesized in the skin upon exposure to sunlight and found in animal-based foods, Vitamin D3 reigns supreme in its potency and effectiveness.
Calcifediol (25-hydroxyvitamin D):
An intermediary form of Vitamin D, calcifediol is generated in the liver from both Vitamin D2 and D3. 
Unlike its counterparts, calcifediol directly reflects Vitamin D status and serves as a critical measure in assessing Vitamin D levels.
Benefits of Vitamin D:
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- Skeletal Strength: Vitamin D’s crucial role in bone health cannot be overstated. By enhancing calcium and phosphorus absorption, it fortifies bones, mitigating the risk of osteoporosis and fractures.
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- Immune Support: Acting as an immune modulator, Vitamin D strengthens our defences against infections and autoimmune disorders, reducing susceptibility to respiratory illnesses and bolstering overall immunity. Emerging evidence suggests that Vitamin D plays a crucial role in bolstering immune function, particularly in the defense against respiratory infections like COVID-19. Calcifediol facilitates this immune fortification, enhancing our resilience against viral threats.
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Reducing Severity of Illness: Studies indicate that maintaining optimal Vitamin D levels may mitigate the severity of COVID-19 symptoms and reduce the risk of complications. By ensuring efficient Vitamin D conversion, Bio-D empowers our bodies to mount a robust immune response, potentially lessening the impact of viral infections.
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- Mood Regulation: Emerging evidence suggests a correlation between Vitamin D levels and mood regulation, with adequate levels associated with reduced risk of depression and seasonal affective disorder.
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- Cardiovascular Health: Vitamin D’s cardio-protective properties extend to blood pressure regulation, inflammation reduction, and improved endothelial function, thereby mitigating the risk of cardiovascular disease.
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- Cancer Prevention: Preliminary studies hint at Vitamin D’s potential role in reducing cancer incidence, particularly in breast, prostate, and colon cancers.
Role of Calcifediol
While many supplements predominantly feature cholecalciferol, as a naturopath and nutritionist, I can prescribe calcifediol to my clients, unlocking a realm of added benefits. Unlike cholecalciferol, calcifediol offers several advantages:
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- Enhanced Bioavailability: Calcifediol boasts superior bioavailability compared to cholecalciferol, ensuring more efficient absorption and utilization within the body.
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- Immediate Action: As an intermediary form of Vitamin D, calcifediol bypasses the conversion process in the liver, exerting its effects more swiftly and effectively.
- Accurate Assessment: Utilizing calcifediol in clinical practice allows for a more precise evaluation of Vitamin D status, enabling tailored recommendations to optimize health outcomes.
Vitamin D emerges as a cornerstone of holistic health, with calcifediol offering a compelling avenue for optimization. As a naturopath and nutritionist, I advocate for a comprehensive approach to Vitamin D supplementation, incorporating calcifediol to harness its added benefits. Through informed guidance and personalized interventions, we can unlock the full potential of Vitamin D, fostering vitality and well-being in our journey toward holistic health.
Harnessing Vitamin D from the Sun
Nothing quite compares to the natural source provided by the sun. Sunlight exposure triggers Vitamin D synthesis in the skin, making it a primary source of this essential nutrient.
Here’s how to make the most of sunlight exposure to boost your Vitamin D levels:
Timing is Key: The best time to soak up the sun’s Vitamin D-producing rays is when the sun is at its highest point in the sky, typically between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. During this time, UVB rays are most abundant, facilitating optimal Vitamin D synthesis in the skin. Aim for brief, unprotected sun exposure during these peak hours to maximize Vitamin D production.
Skin Exposure Matters: To optimize Vitamin D synthesis, expose a significant area of your skin to sunlight. This means wearing clothing that allows for adequate skin exposure, such as shorts and a tank top. Keep in mind that sunscreen blocks UVB rays, which are necessary for Vitamin D production, so consider spending some time in the sun without sunscreen. However, be cautious not to overexpose your skin and risk sunburn.
Mind Your Location: Your geographic location plays a significant role in your ability to produce Vitamin D from sunlight. Those living closer to the equator have access to more intense sunlight year-round, making it easier to maintain adequate Vitamin D levels. Conversely, people living at higher latitudes, especially during the winter months, may struggle to get enough sunlight exposure for Vitamin D synthesis. In such cases, supplementation or dietary sources become essential.
Foods that have Vitamin D
Vitamin D is primarily from the sun, it is naturally present in only a few foods, but it can also be obtained through fortified foods and supplements. Here are some sources of Vitamin D:
1. Fatty Fish: Salmon, trout, mackerel, sardines, and tuna are excellent sources of Vitamin D. Aim for wild-caught fish whenever possible for maximum nutrient content.
2. Egg Yolks: Eggs, particularly the yolks, contain small amounts of Vitamin D. Choose eggs from pasture-raised or free-range chickens for higher Vitamin D levels.
3. Liver: Beef liver, in particular, is a good source of Vitamin D. Incorporating liver into your diet occasionally can provide a nutrient boost.
4. Fortified Foods: Many foods are fortified with Vitamin D to help people meet their daily requirements. Common fortified foods include milk (cow’s milk, soy milk, almond milk), orange juice, breakfast cereals, and some yogurts.
5. Mushrooms: Some varieties of mushrooms, such as shiitake and maitake mushrooms, contain small amounts of Vitamin D. Exposure to sunlight or UV light can increase the Vitamin D content of mushrooms.
6. Cod Liver Oil: This traditional supplement is rich in Vitamin D, as well as Vitamin A and omega-3 fatty acids. It’s available in liquid or capsule form.
