December Issue 2023

Prescription-Strength Vitamin D
While over-the-counter options are suitable for most, some
individuals may require prescription- strength Vitamin D
supplements, especially during the winter or when at risk
of deficiency. Various factors can influence your risk for
Vitamin D deficiency, including:
1. Age: Older individuals are at a higher risk due to decreased
skin efficiency in producing Vitamin D.2
2. Weight: Obesity can slow the absorption of Vitamin D,
increasing the risk of deficiency.2
3. Health History: Conditions such as celiac disease, kidney disease, liver disease, Crohn's
disease, or osteoporosis often lead to lower Vitamin D levels.2
4. Medications: Some medications can affect the body's utilization and absorption of Vitamin
D.2
5. Skin Tone: Individuals with darker skin tones are less efficient at using sunlight to produce
Vitamin D, increasing their susceptibility to deficiency.2
To determine your Vitamin D levels and the risks that may come with them, an easy blood
test can be
ordered during your annual visit with your primary care provider. These routine tests are
crucial in identifying health concerns, including low Vitamin D levels. Once your levels are
assessed, your primary care provider can guide you in choosing the most suitable method of
supplementation based on your health needs.
Maintaining Vitamin D Levels Year-Round
While the colder months often bring the concern of lower Vitamin D levels, it's important to
understand that this nutrients’ significance extends beyond winter. It's a year-round
consideration for maintaining your overall health and bone health. Although you can't stop
the arrival of colder seasons, you have several options to maintain your Vitamin D levels
throughout the year.
By consistently ensuring you receive your daily dose of Vitamin D, you contribute to the wellbeing
of your bones and overall health.2 With multiple approaches available, you can protect
your Vitamin D
levels even during the winter months when the sun is less generous with its rays.
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References
1.Cantorna, M. T. (2020, January 19). Why getting enough vitamin D in wintertime is so important. The
Washington Post. https://www.washingtonpost.com/health/why-getting-enough-vitamin-d-inwintertime-is-so-important/2020/01/17/c3598082-3875-11ea-9541-9107303481a4_story.html#
2.Chestercountyhospital.org. (n.d.). https://www.chestercountyhospital.org/news/health-elivingblog/2022/december/deck-the-halls-with-vitamin-d-avoiding-those-winter-blues