How can I determine the normal range of vitamin D2?

As explained by the Mayo Clinic, two different types of vitamin D exist in nature. Vitamin D2 is only present in plants.

There are no medical tests available that will tell you solely what your vitamin D2 levels are.

You can have a 25-hydroxy vitamin D blood test performed and request a complete breakdown from your doctor.

If you are not within normal range you may need a supplement. Medical experts are only concerned about the total amount of vitamin D that you have in your body. Blood testing for vitamin D takes your levels of both vitamin D2 and vitamin D3 into account.

Your ability to produce vitamin D3 is not only impacted by your skin type but also your skin color. People with dark complexions have a reduced ability to produce and absorb vitamin D from the sun when compared to those with a fair complexion.

Eating properly to ensure that you are receiving enough vitamin D2 is only part of the equation when trying to live a healthy lifestyle. Exercise matters too. Go PRO today for access to certified personal trainers, workout plans, and more. 

What Happens If You Don’t Have a Normal Vitamin d2 Range?

If you do not have a healthy vitamin D range, you are likely vitamin D deficient. If you do not have enough vitamin D in your body it is impossible for you to have a normal vitamin D2 range.

Vitamin D deficiency is easily treatable, however, it does take considerable time. Treatments such as vitamin D supplement prescriptions and even sunbathing have been utilized by doctors for years.

Subsequent 25-hydroxy vitamin D tests will be needed until your results come back within a healthy range. Those with extremely low vitamin D blood levels may need to continue with their treatment plans in order to maintain normal vitamin D blood levels.

When Should You Take Vitamin d2 Supplements?

Many multivitamins contain vitamin D. However, taking vitamin D supplements in high concentrations is only necessary when there is a medical need.

The Office of Dietary Supplements categorizes vitamin D deficiency into four major groups. While three of these groups focus on people that do not get enough vitamin D, there is also a group that refers to vitamin D overdose.

The amount of vitamin D contained in most multivitamins may help you to maintain healthy vitamin D blood levels. If you already spend a substantial amount of time in the sun and eat lots of foods that are rich in vitamin D, you may want to avoid taking supplements.

The vitamin D supplements that are normally prescribed to patients with a vitamin D deficiency have a very high dosage. In some cases, vitamin D deficiency may be treated with vitamin D injection therapy or artificial light treatments.

These extreme treatments are almost always reserved for patients that have life-threatening diseases that are a result of vitamin D deficiency.

How Can You Get Vitamin d2 Naturally?

Vitamin D is found in plants and animals, but it can also be obtained simply by spending time outside. During the summer months, you will be able to get much more vitamin D. You may need to spend more time in direct sunlight if you are deficient or if you have a dark complexion.

Children need less vitamin D than adults, but vitamin D is much more important during adolescence than it is in adulthood. You should try to get your daily intake of vitamin D through healthy eating habits as well as maintaining an active outdoor lifestyle.

The New York Times has reported that sunscreen may actually prevent people from getting the vitamin D that they need to promote bone health.

What Does Vitamin D Do?

Vitamin D is one of several different nutrients that the human body needs to support the skeletal system. Many bone diseases can be treated and prevented by maintaining the recommended vitamin D blood levels.

Vitamin D is also critical for keeping your blood vessels healthy, which can prevent people from developing high blood pressure. Some people suffering from other diseases related to the heart, bones, and skin also benefit from increased vitamin D consumption.

WebMD credits vitamin D for its role in the treatment of multiple sclerosis and vitiligo. Vitamin D supplements and injections are also being tested as a possible treatment for other blood and skin related diseases.

While vitamin D is important to the bones, it also works in conjunction with other vitamins to keep the human body functioning normally. Being deficient in vitamin D may make it more difficult for your body to absorb and produce other necessary nutrients.

For those looking to incorporate diet and exercise into their daily routine, it’s beneficial to have a plan before proceeding. Go PRO today for access to tailored workout plans, training logs, certified personal trainers, and more.