Vitamin D Test
Vitamin D Deficiency
As much as 80% of the population in the United States is estimated to have low vitamin D levels. Emerging studies show that low vitamin D is associated with an increase cause of death from ALL causes1. Low vitamin D is also associated with autoimmune diseases and overall immune health.
Recommended add-on test: 1,25 Vitamin D (active form)
Vitamin D Deficiency Causes
In a society that has almost every vitamin D type food avaliable and abundant sunshine, many are left wondering, “Why are my vitamin D levels low”? The 7 most common causes for low vitamin D levels are:
- Misuse/overuse of sunscreen
- Diet high in processed foods
- Inactivity
- Stress
- Smoking
- Obesity
- Thyroid issues
Why Get Your Vitamin D Levels Checked?
This test will allow you to supplement with the correct dosage of vitamin D. Since you can overdose on vitamin D, it is recommend to be testing once a season in order to adjust supplementation and maintain optimal vitamin D levels.
Vitamin D deficiency has been shown in studies to increase the risk of:
- Autoimmune conditions like Multiple Sclerosis and Hashimoto’s
- Type 1 Diabetes
- Cardiovascular Disease
- Increased blood pressure
- Certain cancers
Vitamin D and Breast Cancer
Studies show a close correlation between optimal vitamin D and breast cancer. Many of these studies show that optimal vitamin D levels are associated with 50% decrease in breast cancer risk2.
What’s Being Tested:
- Vitamin D (25 HydroxyvitaminD- dieatary indicator; inactive form)
- Calcium Serum
Fasting Required: No
Specimen: Blood (Draw Location | How It Works | FAQs)
1Dobnig H, et al. Independent association of low serum 25-Hydroxyvitamin D with all cause mortality. Archives of Internal Medicine. 2008 Jun 23:168:1340-1349.