Know Your Numbers Series Part 2: Vitamin D Testing and Why It Matters
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As part of my ongoing commitment to providing the best care for my patients, I am grateful to be part of an incredible clinician group called The Confident Clinician. Every month, we dive deep into a specific health condition, reviewing the latest research on testing, prevention, and treatment from both conventional and naturopathic perspectives.
This collaboration keeps me up-to-date on the latest evidence so I can better serve you, and I’ve come across something particularly important: Across nearly every health condition, one common theme emerges: Vitamin D deficiency makes everything worse. Let’s get into it!
✍️🔍How Vitamin D Deficiency Affects Your Health:
Vitamin D is essential for many aspects of health, and its deficiency can have far-reaching effects. Below are just a few of the conditions that can be exacerbated by low vitamin D levels:
PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome)
Endometriosis
PMS (Premenstrual Syndrome)
Thyroid function
Blood sugar balance
Cholesterol regulation
Perimenopause and menopause symptoms
Joint pain
Mood disorders and low energy
Bone density
Autoimmune conditions
CAN I JUST TAKE VITAMIN D?
This is a question that I get asked a lot. The answer is yes, in the winter it would be safe for an adult in Ontario to take 2000IU daily because we get Vitamin D from the sun and we don’t get enough sun exposure in the winter months.
BUT, 2000IU may not be enough for you, you may also need to take Vitamin D in the summer, AND too much Vitamin D can be harmful!
One person might need 5000 IU daily to maintain their levels, while another person could reach vitamin D toxicity with that same dosage. The only way to know your optimal dose is to get tested.
🏆How to Get Tested:
Vitamin D testing is generally not OHIP covered. I can order the test ($42) or your doctor can order - but you will expect to pay for it out of pocket. This is a very worthwhile investment!
Many health insurance plans cover labwork that I order as part of your Naturopathic insurance benefits.
🔬Final Thoughts On Vitamin D:
Optimizing your vitamin D levels is one of the most important things you can do for your health. From bone density to immune health to managing conditions like PCOS, thyroid imbalances, and autoimmune conditions, Vitamin D plays a central role in your well-being.
Get tested so we can supplement appropriately based on the season and your body’s needs!
Hi, I’m Dr. Janine, ND
I’m a Naturopathic Doctor currently practicing in Guelph, Ontario, Canada.
I truly believe that our enjoyment of life is closely tied to how we feel physically. When we’re healthy, we can take on anything. But when we feel off, even the simplest tasks become overwhelming. I’ve been through hormonal shifts, sleepless nights as a parent, and the stress of balancing everything. But I also know that with the right strategy, we can go from surviving to thriving—and create a healthy, thriving family in the process.
I look forward to meeting you soon.
- Dr. Janine, ND
Follow me on social media, @dr.janine.nd