
The fat-soluble vitamin D’s most important role is maintaining blood levels of calcium, which it accomplishes by increasing absorption of calcium from food and reducing urinary calcium loss. Both effects keep calcium in the body and therefore spare the calcium that is stored in bones. When necessary, vitamin D transfers calcium from the bone into the bloodstream, which does not benefit bones. Although the overall effect of vitamin D on the bones is complicated, some vitamin D is necessary for healthy bones and teeth.
When "D” is used without a subscript it refers to either D2 or D3, the two primary forms used as supplements.
Our proprietary “Star-Rating” system was developed to help you easily understand the amount of scientific support behind each supplement in relation to a specific health condition. While there is no way to predict whether a vitamin, mineral, or herb will successfully treat or prevent associated health conditions, our unique ratings tell you how well these supplements are understood by the medical community, and whether studies have found them to be effective for other people.
For over a decade, our team has combed through thousands of research articles published in reputable journals. To help you make educated decisions, and to better understand controversial or confusing supplements, our medical experts have digested the science into these three easy-to-follow ratings. We hope this provides you with a helpful resource to make informed decisions towards your health and well-being.
| Used for | Amount | Why |
|---|---|---|
Crohn’s Disease | 1,000 to 1,200 IU daily under medical supervision | |
Cystic Fibrosis | 1,000 to 2,000 IU daily | |
Osteoporosis | 400 to 800 IU daily depending on age, sun exposure, and dietary sources | |
Rickets | Consult a qualified healthcare practitioner | |
Vitamin D Deficiency | Vitamin D deficiency should be diagnosed by a doctor | |
Asthma | 1,200 IU per day for 15 to 17 weeks | |
Burns | 200 to 600 IU day in cases of extensive burns | |
Celiac Disease | Consult a qualified healthcare practitioner | |
Common Cold and Sore Throat | 300 IU per day for three months in winter | |
Depression | 400 to 800 IU daily | |
Epilepsy | Refer to label instructions | |
Hypertension | 800 IU daily | |
Influenza | 800 IU per day for two years; then 2,000 IU per day after that | |
Influenza and Children | 1,200 IU per day for 15 to 17 weeks | |
Low Back Pain | Refer to label instructions | |
Seasonal Affective Disorder | Refer to label instructions | |
Tension Headache (Calcium) | 1,000 to 1,500 mg per day (plus the same amount of calcium) | |
Type 1 Diabetes | Consult a qualified healthcare practitioner | |
Type 2 Diabetes | 1,332 IU daily | |
Type 2 Diabetes and Diabetic Neuropathy | 2,000 IU of vitamin D per day for three months | |
Alcohol Withdrawal | Refer to label instructions | |
Amenorrhea and Osteoporosis (Calcium) | Refer to label instructions | |
Breast Cancer | Refer to label instructions | |
Cardiac Arrhythmia | Refer to label instructions | |
Colon Cancer | Refer to label instructions | |
Dysmenorrhea | Refer to label instructions | |
Migraine Headache | Refer to label instructions | |
Multiple Sclerosis | Refer to label instructions | |
Parkinson’s Disease | Refer to label instructions | |
Prostate Cancer | 2,000 IU daily | |
Urinary Incontinence | Refer to label instructions | |
Vitiligo | Refer to label instructions | |
Sunburn (Vitamin A) | Refer to label instructions |
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The information presented in Aisle7 is for informational purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. Self-treatment is not recommended for life-threatening conditions that require medical treatment under a doctor's care. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over the counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires June 2014.