Scientific literature and health experts assert that 50+ ng/ml, not 30 ng/ml, is the optimal serum vitamin D level we should all strive for to support our health and well-being.
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Truly Optimal Vitamin D Levels Are Higher Than You Might Think
September 19, 2021
If you’ve ever had your serum vitamin D levels tested or done a quick search online about healthy levels, you’ve probably come across the idea that 30 ng/ml is the goal—but that’s not really the case. In truth, 30 ng/ml is just the bottom cutoff for vitamin D “sufficiency.” …
“This is the bare minimum level to avoid major issues known to occur with vitamin D deficiency, including bone issues and poor thyroid health,” explains board-certified endocrinologist Brittany Henderson, M.D., who specializes in hormones (including vitamin D) in her clinical practice. That said, “higher levels of serum 25(OH)D have consistently been associated with improvements in mood, enhancement of the immune system, and more.”
Unfortunately, a large chunk (41%) of the U.S. adult population is in the “warning zone” (< 30 ng/ml), and they probably don’t even know it. …
“We are consistently undertreating patients when we stop at 30 ng/ml,” Henderson continues. “Our population is heavily vitamin D deficient and targeting an optimal level of 50 ng/ml has an enormous impact on all aspects of human health.” …
If you’re able to get a baseline 25(OH)D test, great. It will help you track the progress of the supplement so your health care provider can help pivot and individualize your dosing as needed. “For example, folks with more body fat will require proportionately more vitamin D, about two to three times more, per the science,”* says Ferira.
In terms of follow-up testing, Henderson recommends retesting your vitamin D status every eight to 12 weeks and working with your health care practitioner to make any tweaks needed.
Scientific literature and health experts assert that 50+ ng/ml, not 30 ng/ml, is the optimal serum vitamin D level we should all strive for to support our health and well-being.
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