Vitamin D Protocol
Focuses on optimizing vitamin D levels, a crucial fat-soluble vitamin and hormone precursor, to support immune function, bone health, and overall well-being.
Overview
Vitamin D, often called the 'sunshine vitamin,' is made by your skin when exposed to sunlight. Despite its name, vitamin D acts more like a hormone than a typical vitamin. It plays a major role in modulating the immune system, helping your body absorb calcium, and regulating mood. Vitamin D receptors exist on immune cells like B cells, T cells, and antigen-presenting cells, which means vitamin D can act in an autocrine manner directly where immune activity happens. The primary function of vitamin D is helping your intestines absorb calcium and phosphorus properly so your bones can form their mineral structure. Most people don't get enough vitamin D, particularly during winter months or if they live in areas with limited sunlight.
Key Benefits
Essential for calcium absorption and maintaining strong bones by helping your intestines take up calcium efficiently and keeping the right calcium levels in your blood. Supports your immune system by influencing both innate and adaptive immune responses - when you're deficient, you're more likely to develop autoimmune conditions and get infections. Supports mood regulation and can help reduce depression symptoms, especially if your vitamin D levels are adequate to begin with. Low vitamin D levels are linked to more depression and anxiety symptoms. Take vitamin D supplements at the right doses and monitor your blood levels regularly to get the most benefits while keeping your levels in the optimal 40-60 ng/mL range.