Why vitamin D matters more than you think.

Vitamin D is often called the “sunshine vitamin,” but technically, it’s a steroid hormone that your body produces when your skin is exposed to sunlight.

It plays a crucial role in bone health, immune function, and even mood regulation, but it also has a powerful effect on brain health—specifically its ability to lower the risk of dementia.

Low vitamin D levels have been linked to cognitive decline and a higher risk of Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. Some studies suggest that adequate vitamin D levels may slow brain aging and help preserve memory and cognitive function over time. For women over 50, who are already at greater risk for both osteoporosis and dementia, this is a game changer.

To get the most benefit, vitamin D should be taken in the form of D3 (cholecalciferol), ideally with vitamin K2. These two work together: vitamin D helps your body absorb calcium, and vitamin K2 directs that calcium to your bones, instead of your arteries or even in your tendons. (I always remember “K carries calcium”)

As for dosage,  experts recommend anywhere from 1,000 to 4,000 IU per day, especially if you don’t get much sun exposure. In cases of a greater deficiency, higher doses (up to 5,000 IU) may be needed. Always pair it with dietary fat to improve absorption.

Before starting any supplement regimen, get your vitamin D levels tested. The optimal range is typically between 50–80 ng/mL. Read your own blood work. Mine came in at 30mg/mL and that is considered “normal” so it wasn’t flagged. Luckily, I read my own report.

In short, vitamin D is more than just a feel-good vitamin—it’s a powerful ally for your bones, your immune system, and your brain. Get tested, use a D supplemental that has K2 (I like MyCusomtCleanse because it’s a liquid drop for fast absorption and has the k vitamin in it), get sun exposure (try the app D-minder – it will give you more specifics) and consider making it a part of your health routine if your blood works shows you are low in D.

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36874594/