What Is Vitamin D3?

Vitamins are natural molecules that our bodies need in order to function and sustain a strong metabolism.  There are different types of vitamins – one of them being vitamin D3. While several forms of vitamin D exist, D-3 is the most commonly used in supplements. This version of vitamin D3 (known as “cholecalciferol”) is actually absorbed better than D2 making it a wiser choice for any supplement. [i] All vitamin D forms have the same effect however – reducing inflammation. 

Some Vitamin D3 is produced naturally by the body. Exposure to the sun allows the skin to absorb ultraviolet rays. [ii] The body then makes a substance called “pre-vitamin D-3”, which travels to the liver to become vitamin D-3, known as “calcidiol”. [iii] Special proteins carry calcidiol to the kidneys and then the liver where vitamin D3 turns into its active form. The body’s amount of vitamin D3 produced depends on how much sunlight you are exposed to. People who reside North of the equator must obviously receive additional Vitamin D3 as exposure to sunlight, is inhibited by the fall and winter months! (and we just LOVE snow and winter) Vitamin D3 is not fully produced within the body so us Northerners must receive it through our diet or supplements. Makes sense. 

Food Sources of Vitamin D3

Foods traditionally used to take Vitamin D3 are largely consisting of fish. Salmon, herring, tuna, are commonly eaten. Additional meats such as beef liver, eggs, and cheese are also complimentary food items where this special vitamin is found. If however one is vegetarian, or trying to stay away from canned goods, meat and fish that contain pollutants, chemicals or additives, this can pose as a deterrent. The supplement industry has exploded as a result of toxic food. Even supplements however have to be carefully studied by the consumer – they are not all of the same quality or grade. 

Vitamin D3 Benefits

Vitamin D3 is vital for bone and muscle function and has anti-inflammatory effects. As a result, many people believe that all vitamin D versions play a role in relieving joint pain, particularly where inflammation is the cause. Present research links Vitamin D3 deficiency to a chronic inflammatory condition that affects the joints. This condition is known as rheumatoid arthritis.

People with rheumatoid arthritis have less vitamin D and D3 in their blood than people without this condition. Unfortunately, this type of deficiency may be a risk factor for the onset of further inflammatory diseases. Diseases such as osteoporosis for example, may develop because of increased susceptibility to fractures and bone pain. Depression and mood swings can also occur with a lack of this vitamin. This has serious consequences – but Vitamin D3 deficiency is so easily reversed. Good news! 

Interesting that we are not told this, but without enough vitamin D, it would not matter how much calcium you ate to keep your bones strong…vitamin D controls the absorption of dietary calcium. They all work together as an entourage effect. Vitamin D also regulates the growth of cells, including cells that activate your immune response and kill bacteria. Ongoing research now suggests that vitamin D may also help prevent cancer.[iv]

So folks, the question is: Are you suffering from joint or arthritic pain? Are you constantly getting stiff and decreasingly mobile in your muscles? Terrific! Vitamin D3 is essential to help in your quest for decreased joint pain and more lubricated muscles in your engine – rev her up everybody! Full speed ahead…

[i] www.onnit.com

[ii] www.healthyfocus.org

[iii] https://www.currentschoolnews.com/education-news/difference-between-vitamin-d-and-vitamin-d3/

[iv] https://www.verywellhealth.com/vitamin-d-may-help-some-cancer-therapies-work-2252049