| Amount Per Serving | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|
| Vitamin D3 (Cholecalciferol) 5000IU | 625% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
† Daily Value Not Established
‡
These supplement facts may vary from the product you receive. Please call for exact numbers.
Other Ingredients: Olive Oil, Gelatin Capsule (bovine source), Glycerin, Purified Water
Directions: As a dietary supplement, take one softgel daily with a full
glass of water preferably with a meal, or as directed by a physician.
Warning: If you are pregnant, nursing, taking any medications or have any medical condition consult your physician before use. DO NOT FREEZE. Keep out of reach of children. Store in a cool, dark & dry place.
Cholecalciferol, commonly known as vitamin D3, is a steroid hormone that plays numerous roles within the body. It’s essential for maintaining calcium and phosphorous levels, sustaining numerous metabolic functions, and promoting bone health and development. Despite its name, vitamin D is not a true vitamin. Even so, it’s an essential micronutrient that the body needs to sustain life.
Many refer to vitamin D as the sunshine vitamin in reference to the skin’s ability to produce it from sunlight and ultraviolet light. As little as 15 minutes spent in the sun can generate up to 5000IU of vitamin D. Unsurprisingly, individuals have a higher risk of developing vitamin D deficiencies during the winter. Living in cold climate conditions also increases this risk. Even if individuals spend time outdoors during colder months, they often bundle up in many layers of clothing. Minimally exposed skin dramatically reduces the body’s ability to synthesize vitamin D from sunlight. Sunscreen usage is also on the rise as the public becomes more aware of the dangers of UV rays. While sunscreen is essential for protecting the skin, it hinders vitamin D absorption.
Vitamin D3 is a fat-soluble compound, meaning individuals need to take it with a fat source to absorb it efficiently. Taking vitamin D supplements with meals can help achieve this, but research shows that taking vitamin D with an oil as a carrier vehicle provides superior absorption. PureBulk uses olive oil to ensure maximum vitamin D3 uptake. Other oils, such as corn, safflower, or soybean oil, are poor carriers for several reasons. For example, corn and soybean oil are only fatty structures, whereas olive oil is a true fat. Unlike other oils, olive oil has a synergy with vitamin D that reduces inflammation and oxidative stress. Taking olive oil with dietary sources fortified with vitamin D also improves vitamin D absorption. Lastly, allergies to olive oil are rare, unlike soy.
Vitamin D2 and D3 are the most important of the various vitamin D compounds. Many food sources contain vitamin D2, also known as ergocalciferol. These include eggs, herring, mackerel, salmon, sardines, tuna, and various fortified foods. While both forms provide vitamin D, vitamin D3 has greater efficacy as it is easier for the body to absorb. Cod liver oil, salmon, and tuna are the most common vitamin D3 food sources. However, individuals would have to consume these nearly every day to ensure they have sufficient vitamin D. As such, many opt to take vitamin D3 supplements to meet their nutritional needs.
Vitamin D performs numerous biological roles. However, its most important functions include the formation and maintenance of strong bones, cartilage, and teeth. Adequate calcium and phosphorous are essential for healthy teeth and bones. Vitamin D enhances the absorption of these compounds in the small intestines. It also regulates the rate of bone turnover and calcium release. Additionally, research shows vitamin D decreases the likelihood of falls and fractured bones.
Vitamin D supports immune function in several ways. It’s an immunoregulator that activates the body’s natural defenses against toxins. It defends against invading pathogens by enhancing T-cell function. Vitamin D also stimulates macrophages that surround and destroy pathogens. Insufficient vitamin D impairs immune function and increases the likelihood of developing illnesses or infectious diseases. Individuals with vitamin D deficiencies are particularly at risk of developing respiratory illnesses, as insufficient vitamin D impairs lung function.
Vitamin D3 may provide several other health benefits. For example, vitamin D3 may improve mood, increase upper and lower body strength, support weight loss efforts, and enhance longevity.
Vitamin D deficiencies are often asymptomatic but can have severe long-term effects. In children, vitamin D deficiencies can result in rickets—a condition that deforms teeth and bones. Adults deficient in vitamin D may suffer from a similar condition known as osteomalacia. Vitamin D deficiencies also increase the risk of developing osteoporosis, which weakens bones and increases the probability of bone fractures. Vitamin D deficiencies also increase the risk of severe acute respiratory infections.
Taking too much vitamin D can have an adverse effect on bones. It’s a fat-soluble compound, meaning the body stores excess amounts instead of excreting them. Individuals that take excessive vitamin d doses may experience constipation, irritability, irregular heartbeat, nausea, seizures, weakness, or weight loss.
*NOTE: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.