Vitamin D Functional Lab Test

Vitamin D metabolites have been reported to induce anti-inflammatory activity via multiple mechanisms and inhibition of the pro-inflammatory response (cytokines).

 

It comes back low in approximately 60% of the tests we run at the Functional Health Clinic. And once you have this insight there are many considerations and options.

Of course, the topic of supplementation comes up often. Yet, most of the opportunities will be around the factors of environment/light quality, nutrition, immune function etc.

 

So we focus here first prior to supplementation.

 

There are also many assumptions and blanket statements made about Vitamin D supplementation and we much prefer to come in grounded and balanced on these/all topics.

 

Statements such as – everyone should supplement with it, no harm in trying, or that it will make your immune system stronger, increase energy etc.

 

There are many cases where it can be safe and effective and indeed life-changing for some, but it just isn’t that simple. In reality, there is more to it than that.

 

Which is really just another example of there being no one-size-fits-all!

 

So – if it is low or you have functional evidence that it is then you could consider:

 

More sunlight, with consistency.

 

Consider specific UVB wavelength guidelines.

 

Improve fat consumption carefully as Vit D is a fat-soluble vitamin.

 

Aid fat digestion and absorption.

 

Support liver and kidney function as certain enzymes are required to convert Vitamin D into its active form.

 

Nutritionally, it is worth fine-tuning consumption of high quality Milk, Eggs, Cod, Halibut, Snapper, Beef liver and Turkey.

 

The main consideration regarding Vitamin D supplementation is that in some cases it can be problematic for people.

 

Supplementing with Vitamin D can be challenging as it can affect the levels of other minerals through various mechanisms. Such as, Vitamin A, Copper, Magnesium and Potassium.

 

And there are important elements of the type, quality, dosage and form.

So assess, before you guess and individualise your approach to optimising Vitamin D status.

 

Jack