Vitamin D3 1000 IU, 100 softgel capsules

Cholecalciferol – the most effective form of vitamin D

High doses of vitamin D have been known in the orthomolecular world for some time. In recent years, however, a wealth of clear research findings has led more and more (respected) experts (scientists, professors and doctors) to urgently recommend vitamin D supplementation.

Vitamin D3 1000 IU from Vitals contains 25 µg cholecalciferol from a plant source (algae). The product consists of easy-to-swallow softgels that are made entirely from plant material. This also makes it suitable for vegans and for people who prefer plant-based foods for other reasons.

The effect of vitamin D3 is the most pronounced.

The most common forms of vitamin D (calciferol) are vitamin D2 (ergocalciferol) and vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol). Under the influence of UV light, such as that emitted by the sun, the human body produces cholecalciferol in the skin (which is why it is also called the “sunshine vitamin”). In the liver these forms of vitamin D are converted to calcidiol (25-hydroxyvitamin D), a metabolite. In the kidneys as well as in other cells and tissues, calcidiol is converted as needed into the biologically active hormone calcitriol (1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D). With regard to supplementation, however, it is important to note that vitamin D3 appears in most cases to be more effective than vitamin D2 at raising calcidiol and ultimately calcitriol levels in the blood.

Requirement for vitamin D

Although the skin can produce vitamin D, this does not work properly for many Europeans. It is necessary to spend at least 15 to 30 minutes outdoors daily between 11 am and 3 pm. Many people, however, have jobs that keep them indoors at precisely these times. The weather is also often unfavourable. When people then go into the sun with uncovered skin, their skin is soon treated with sunscreen. In addition, the sun’s strength between November and May is not sufficient. Therefore vitamin D production and intake from the diet is insufficient for most people (especially during these months). Many vitamin D specialists also believe that the optimal vitamin D level is higher than stated in common recommendations. In their view the calcidiol level in every person should be at least 75 nanomoles per litre of blood (nmol/L), whereas the Dutch Health Council, for example, considers a value of 30 nmol/L (or 50 nmol/L from the age of 70) to be sufficient. These form the basis for the reference values for nutrition as well as the recommendations for vitamin D supplementation.

Effects of vitamin D in the body

Over the past decades, knowledge about the role and importance of vitamin D in the human body has grown considerably. In more than 30 different tissues and organs, including immune cells, muscles and bones, researchers have discovered receptors for vitamin D. This means that vitamin D exerts a variety of effects and promotes health in many ways. Above all, it is known that vitamin D is good for teeth and bones. Vitamin D is necessary for the absorption/utilisation of calcium and phosphorus and for maintaining normal levels of these two nutrients in the blood. These minerals are in turn necessary for the mineralisation of teeth and bones. Vitamin D is also beneficial for muscles, as muscle tissue also contains a vitamin D receptor. Its activation increases protein synthesis in the muscles, which is essential for their function. In addition, vitamin D plays a role in the cell division process and in the formation of new cells and tissues. Vitamin D also has an immunomodulatory effect, meaning it regulates processes within the immune system. Vitamin D receptors are present on T helper cells, a type of white blood cell that plays a decisive role in certain immunological processes. In this way vitamin D plays a diverse role in our complex immune system.

Nutritional properties

• Vitamin D contributes to the normal absorption/use of calcium and phosphorus.
• Vitamin D contributes to maintaining normal blood calcium levels.
• Vitamin D contributes to the maintenance of normal bones.
• Vitamin D contributes to the maintenance of normal muscle function.
• Vitamin D contributes to the maintenance of normal teeth.
• Vitamin D contributes to the normal function of the immune system.
• Vitamin D has a role in cell division.

Nutritional information

*Reference intake according to Regulation (EU) No. 1169/2011
Vitamin D3V® is a registered trademark of ProTecNutra Ltd.

Ingredients

Extra virgin olive oil (Olea europaea), cassava starch (softgel capsule), humectant (glycerol), purified water, cholecalciferol (from algae).

Recommended use

Take 1 softgel capsule per day with water with a (fat-containing) meal.

Note

This dietary supplement is not suitable for children up to and including 10 years of age (legally required notice for products with more than 20 µg vitamin D per daily dose).

Storage instructions

Store in a cool, dry place protected from light (do not refrigerate).

Legal information

Do not exceed the recommended daily dose. Dietary supplements are not a substitute for a varied and balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle. Keep out of reach of young children.