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Vitamin D
Vitamin D Supplements, Capsules, Softgels & More
Vitamin D is an essential nutrient for bone health, immune health, muscle function, cognition, mood and more. Technically a hormone, vitamin D is naturally produced by our bodies when skin is exposed to sunlight. It’s also obtained through diet, and can be taken in supplement form. Because it’s fat-soluble, vitamin D should be consumed with other foods containing fat for best absorption.
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Vitamin D Foods
While vitamin D doesn’t naturally occur in many foods, you can find it in certain fish, such as swordfish, sockeye salmon, tuna and sardines. It’s also present in egg yolk, Swiss cheese and cod liver oil. Most of the vitamin D consumed through diet is from fortified foods, including orange juice, milk, yogurt and cereal. For most Americans, fortified foods are the primary source of vitamin D.
Vitamin D from Sun Exposure
If you’re looking to the sun for your vitamin D, aim for 10 to 15 minutes of sun exposure two to three times a week. Sunscreen is still recommended, and a recent study found that it does not hinder absorption of vitamin D.
Even with a weekly dose of sunrays, swordfish and fortified foods, a vitamin D supplement may be necessary. Seniors, breastfed infants, dark-skinned people and those with medical conditions are recommended extra vitamin D through supplementation.
Choosing a Vitamin D Supplement
When browsing Vitacost’s broad selection of over 500 vitamin D supplements, it can be overwhelming narrowing your search to the right product for you. Before adding any supplements to your regimen, talk to your healthcare provider. They can advise on the dosage and product that’s right for your health needs.
According to the National Institutes of Health, the recommended daily vitamin D intake for children and adults is 15 mcg or 600 IU of vitamin D daily. For seniors age 71 and older, the recommended amount is 20 mcg or 800 IU of vitamin D daily.
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