What is Vitamin D?
Vitamin D is a unique nutrient that acts as a hormone. Produced in the skin upon exposure to sunlight, it then enters the bloodstream and gets activated in the liver and kidneys. Known as the sunshine vitamin, vitamin D belongs to the steroid hormone family, which includes hormones like cortisol, estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone.
Vitamin D is essential for various bodily functions, including:
- Bone Health: Promotes calcium absorption, essential for strong bones.
- Immune Function: Supports a healthy immune system.
- Muscle Function: Helps maintain muscle strength and function.
- Mental Health: Linked to mood regulation and may reduce the risk of depression.
Why Should I Test my Vitamin D level?
The 25-hydroxyvitamin D test (25(OH)D) is the most accurate way to measure your body's vitamin D levels. The normal range is 30 to 74 nanograms per milliliter (ng/mL). Levels below 30 ng/mL are considered insufficient, and levels below 20 ng/mL indicate a deficiency. Recent studies suggest that levels below 50 ng/mL may also be insufficient, highlighting the importance of regular monitoring.
The Vitamin D Council recommends maintaining levels above 50 ng/mL year-round. Seasonal fluctuations are common, with levels typically highest at the end of summer and lowest at the end of winter. Testing your vitamin D levels again in three months can help determine if changes in sun exposure or supplementation are needed to correct deficiencies.
How It Works
The process is simple and user-friendly. The provided Blood Collection Kit includes a special finger lancet to collect four drops of blood. You place the sample on the collection card, let it dry, and then mail it in the prepaid envelope to a CLIA-certified lab. Your sample will be delivered to the lab in 5-7 days, and processing takes an additional 3-5 days. You'll receive an email when your results are available online at DBS Lab Portal, with the total turnaround time being approximately three weeks.
*Please do not purchase if your state does not permit direct access testing or requires a physician's order for laboratory testing.
Vitamin D - The Sunshine Vitamin
The best source of vitamin D is sunlight. Despite the benefits, modern lifestyles and the widespread use of sunblock have contributed to an epidemic of vitamin D deficiency. Spending 10-20 minutes in the sun with arms and legs exposed (not the face) two to three times a week can significantly boost your vitamin D levels. The required amount of sun exposure varies based on skin type and geographical location.
Vitamin D Food Sources
Natural food sources of vitamin D are limited. The best sources include:
- Fish: Salmon, tuna, and mackerel
- Fish Liver Oils: High in vitamin D
- Fortified Foods: Milk and orange juice are often fortified with vitamin D
To meet daily requirements, you would need to eat oily fish like salmon and mackerel 3-5 times a week or drink 10 glasses of fortified milk or orange juice daily, which is impractical for most people. Therefore, supplementation may be necessary.
Symptoms of Vitamin D Deficiency
Vitamin D deficiency is common, affecting about 70% of the population in the USA and Canada, according to experts. It's especially prevalent among women, people of color, obese individuals, senior citizens, and breastfed infants. Common symptoms include:
- Fatigue
- Joint pain and swelling
- Leg cramps
- Muscle pain or weakness
- Sleep disturbances
- Poor concentration and memory
- Headaches
- Bladder and bowel issues
Vitamin D and Disease Prevention
Adequate vitamin D levels are linked to a lower risk of various diseases. A 2008 study published in the American Medical Association's Archives of Internal Medicine found that high vitamin D levels were associated with a 26% lower risk of death from all causes. Conditions potentially linked to low vitamin D levels include:
- Autoimmune diseases
- Cancer
- Cardiovascular disease
- Depression
- Diabetes (type 1 and 2)
- Fibromyalgia
- Hypertension
- Inflammatory Bowel Disease
- Migraine headaches
- Multiple sclerosis
- Osteomalacia
- Osteoporosis
- Periodontal disease
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Rickets
Maintaining adequate vitamin D levels is considered essential for overall health and helpful in reducing the risk of various diseases and conditions.
Take Charge of Your Health
Order your Home Vitamin D Blood Test today to monitor your vitamin D levels conveniently and accurately. By understanding and managing your vitamin D status, you can take proactive steps towards better health and well-being.
Remember, while home testing provides valuable insights, it alone is not diagnostic of health conditions. Always consult with your trusted healthcare provider about your test results, health concerns, and any symptoms you’re experiencing.
Read complete test instructions Vitamin D Test Instructions
View a sample lab report Vitamin D Test Lab Results
1. Complete Test Requisition and consent form.
2. Take Blood Collection Device from foil pouch and affix barcode label to the top/lid of green device so it will show when closed.
3. Wash hands with warm water and dry thoroughly. Clean with alcohol pad.
4. Remove cap from lancet and hold lancet steady, press down on side of fingertip pad
5. Drip blood from fingertip to fill the middle circle of collection device - about 4 drops
6. Allow the blood to soak into the device for about 3 minutes
7. After blood is absorbed, close the green device firmly by folding over the top. Make sure the latches are secure and your barcode label shows on lid when it is closed.
8. Place Test Requisition Form and blood collection device in return mailing envelope within 24 hours of collection and mail to lab
9. Allow 5-7 days for delivery of your sample to the lab and an additional 3-5 days for processing. Your results will be available online at on https://www.dbslabportal.com/.
1. Can you receive vitamin D from sunlight through windows?
Answer: No, sunlight coming through window glass will not produce any vitamin D in the skin. The glass absorbs UVB radiation, which is necessary for your body to produce vitamin D.
2. What time of day is best for sun exposure to make vitamin D?
Answer: The best time for sun exposure to maximize vitamin D production is between noon and 2 pm when the sun is at its highest point and UVB rays are most intense.
3. If I shower after being in the sun, will I wash the vitamin D off of my skin?
Answer: No, vitamin D is synthesized in the skin and cannot be washed off. Once produced, it is quickly absorbed into your bloodstream.
4. If almost everyone is vitamin D deficient, why should I test at all?
Answer: Knowing your specific vitamin D level is crucial. It allows you to determine the appropriate supplementation and monitor progress. Testing again after three months of supplementation or increased sun exposure helps track improvement and ensures you reach optimal levels.
5. How much sun exposure is needed to produce adequate vitamin D?
Answer: Generally, 10-20 minutes of sun exposure to your arms and legs, two to three times a week, is sufficient for most people. However, the required amount can vary based on skin type, geographical location, and the time of year.
6. Can diet alone provide enough vitamin D?
Answer: While certain foods like oily fish (salmon, tuna, mackerel) and fortified products (milk, orange juice) contain vitamin D, it is challenging to get adequate amounts from diet alone. Most people need additional sun exposure or supplements to reach optimal levels.
7. What are the risks of low vitamin D levels?
Answer: Vitamin D deficiency can lead to a variety of health issues, including weakened bones (osteoporosis), increased risk of fractures, muscle weakness, and a higher likelihood of developing chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and autoimmune conditions.
8. How often should I test my vitamin D levels?
Answer: It is recommended to test your vitamin D levels at least once a year, especially during winter when levels are typically lowest. If you are supplementing or have been diagnosed with a deficiency, consider testing every three months to monitor progress.
9. Are there any symptoms of vitamin D toxicity?
Answer: While rare, vitamin D toxicity can occur from excessive supplementation. Symptoms include nausea, vomiting, weakness, and serious complications like kidney damage. It’s important to follow recommended dosages and consult with your healthcare provider.
10. Can vitamin D supplementation improve mood?
Answer: Studies have shown a link between adequate vitamin D levels and improved mood. Vitamin D plays a role in brain function, and low levels have been associated with an increased risk of depression.