Vitamin D, often hailed as the sunshine vitamin, plays a crucial role in our health by helping the body absorb calcium and promoting bone and teeth strength. However, despite its importance, Vitamin D deficiency is widespread, contributing to various health issues ranging from osteoporosis to type 2 diabetes.
Vitamin D functions like a pro-hormone produced when our skin is exposed to sunlight. It's vital for bone health and immune function and can even reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes by 15%.
Challenges in Vitamin D Synthesis
Achieving adequate Vitamin D levels is more complex than basking in the sun. The vitamin breaks down quickly; during winter in northern latitudes, UVB rays are often too weak to contribute to its production.
Expert Insight
Alexandra shares, "Vitamin D deficiency is linked to multiple health concerns, including cancer and depression. Unfortunately, deficiency rates are high in the U.S., partly due to limited dietary sources and the increasing prevalence of obesity."
Dietary Sources of Vitamin D
Foods High in Vitamin D:
Fatty fish like salmon and tuna
Fortified milk and orange juices
Mushrooms
Eggs
Cod Liver Oil
Alexandra's Advice on Supplements
"While foods and over-the-counter supplements can help, they often fail to correct deficiencies. Many individuals need prescription-strength doses of Vitamin D."
The Top 5 Benefits of Vitamin D
Bone and Dental Health: Essential for maintaining strong bones and teeth.
Immune System Support: Plays a key role in immune health and may prevent certain illnesses.
Regulation of Insulin: Helps manage diabetes by influencing insulin levels.
Supports Cardiovascular Health: Vital for lung function and heart health.
Cancer Prevention: Influences genes linked to cancer development.
Guidelines for Vitamin D Supplementation
Infants (0-12 months): 400 IU (10 mcg)
Children (1-18 years) and Adults (up to age 70): 600 IU (15 mcg)
Older Adults (over 70): 800 IU (20 mcg)
Pregnant or Lactating Women: 600 IU (15 mcg)
Caution! Exceeding 4000 IU daily can be harmful and lead to adverse effects.
Recognizing a Vitamin D Deficiency
Depression or anxiety
Low bone density or fractures
Fatigue and weakness
Muscle cramps and joint pain
Mood swings and irritability
Getting Tested
A simple blood test can determine your Vitamin D levels and help you take steps to address any deficiency.
New Patient Scheduling
Take control of your care with our easy guest scheduling. From primary to pediatric care, your family is in good hands.
Department Spotlight: Core Laboratory at Renown South Meadows Medical Center
Those of us who live in the Reno area have seen firsthand how much our region has grown since the pandemic. Our population has boomed – increasing by 6.25% since the 2020 census – and that number is only expected to increase, especially on the south end of town. As South Reno continues to grow, so do the healthcare needs of its residents. When it comes to unlocking the secrets of your health, the lab is one of the best places to start. And in south Reno, we are fortunate to have a department that is skilled at doing exactly that.
The Renown South Meadows Core Lab team is flourishing in their revamped space within the new Specialty Care Center. From advocating for preventive care to being a key player in the diagnostic process, these medical lab scientists and clinical lab assistants (CLAs) are ready to jump in to help at a moment’s notice.
Primary Care, Urgent Care or ER? How to Choose the Right One
When seeking medical care, there are several different provider types and options from which to choose. For example, you may have asked yourself a common question: Should I go to my primary care provider, urgent care or the emergency room? Sarah Herbert, APRN with Renown Medical Group – South Carson, provides guidelines to help you easily make this decision.
With spring in full swing and summer on the horizon, it’s the perfect time to enjoy the outdoors. But as temperatures rise, staying hydrated becomes more important than ever. So how much water do you really need—and how can you make it easier to keep up? Aurosis Reddy, DO, a family medicine provider with Renown Medical Group, shares helpful hydration tips.
