What are optimum Vitamin D levels?

[Elizabeth2008]

I just got my bloodwork back from my physical and my Vitamin D, 25-Hydroxy was 33.9. I don't really have any idea if that's good or not. Anyone know?

[Junegoddess]

Most sources will say that 40-60 is the range you want. From stuff I've read all over the net (and sorry, I am deplorable about remembering WHERE and being able to offer links), I have decided I want mine in the 60-80 range. Over 60 is where it needs to be in order to help autoimmune diseases and inflammatory conditions. I have both, sooo... my goal is to be way over 60.

Our ancestors hung out half-naked and ate vitamin D-rich foods. I'm bettin' they were on the higher end with their blood levels.

It doesn't take too long, in my personal experience, to get it up there, either. My first vitamin D test showed my level at 43 or so. I spent the next 6 months accidentally getting pregnant (vitamin D drain there, I'm guessing), not managing to get any sun (hottest summer EVER, ugh), but taking a 4000 IU vitamin D capsule and another 1000 IU from CLO every day. I got it up to 59 by my retest 6 months after the first.

[punkrockmomma]

Originally Posted by Junegoddess

Most sources will say that 40-60 is the range you want. From stuff I've read all over the net (and sorry, I am deplorable about remembering WHERE and being able to offer links), I have decided I want mine in the 60-80 range. Over 60 is where it needs to be in order to help autoimmune diseases and inflammatory conditions. I have both, sooo... my goal is to be way over 60.

Our ancestors hung out half-naked and ate vitamin D-rich foods. I'm bettin' they were on the higher end with their blood levels.

It doesn't take too long, in my personal experience, to get it up there, either. My first vitamin D test showed my level at 43 or so. I spent the next 6 months accidentally getting pregnant (vitamin D drain there, I'm guessing), not managing to get any sun (hottest summer EVER, ugh), but taking a 4000 IU vitamin D capsule and another 1000 IU from CLO every day. I got it up to 59 by my retest 6 months after the first.

I was told by my doc. last spring that people feel the best when their D levels are in the 60s, mine were in the 30s. My doc. recommended I take 4000 IUs of D a day, and that is what I've been taking everyday since last spring. I take a 1/2 tsp. of the fermented cod liver oil/butter oil blend, and then I take a really good D3 supp. to get the rest of the D3 I need.

[sunshinestarr]

What's the D3 supplement that you take, punkrockmomma?

[CrunchyChristianMama]

Would those numbers be the same for a toddler or child? I'm getting my DD's number checked in a few months and am curious as well.

We use Carlson's drops right now btw and like that it's not something else to swallow, just a drop or two in a glass of water.

[pampered_mom]

I've always understood that 50 was a good level to shoot for, but in considering things like H1N1 I've seen it recommended that your levels be at least 60...and supplementing with however much your body needs to reach that level.

[SuburbanHippie]

We're aiming for 60-80 range for this flu season. We take Dr Eisenstein's vitamins now, but plan to switch to Carlson's drops (just ordered them today!) because of cost. I do like Dr E's though because they contain probiotics. I have a hard time getting probiotics into my kids (dairy issues).

[sunnysandiegan]

Where / How do you get tested? Does *any* doctor do this? Are some more sensitive to the issue than others?

We live in sunny San Diego. DD & I get outside during the sunlight hours multiple times every single day. Our lives are very outdoor-centric (we walk many places). DH, on the other hand, has to make an effort to get outside during daylight hours. I would be very curious to compare our vitamin D levels! (And, of course, take action, if warranted.)

Due to a few minor things (mostly scalp issues), I purchased Bluebonnet Vitamin D3 1000 IU softgels for DH to take on days he doesn't get outside enough. The woman at the health food store said he would only need one a day here. I believe she was the same person who told me vitamin D deficiencies are less common here than in other places. Deficiencies are not the same as optimum, though, kwim.

What are your thoughts?

[I posted this here since it seemed relevant. If it should be a separate thread, please let me know. Thanks!]

[SuburbanHippie]

You can ask your doctor for a 25(OH)D blood test. You could also DIY by ordering a kit and mailing it to the lab. You can purchase this at vitamindcouncil.org.

[pampered_mom]

Originally Posted by SuburbanHippie

We're aiming for 60-80 range for this flu season. We take Dr Eisenstein's vitamins now, but plan to switch to Carlson's drops (just ordered them today!) because of cost. I do like Dr E's though because they contain probiotics. I have a hard time getting probiotics into my kids (dairy issues).

I've looked at his before - I'm especially intrigued by his 50K ones for acute things (like flu) especially given that even the WAPF talks about how much vit D you can go through when ill.

Originally Posted by sunnysandiegan

Where / How do you get tested? Does *any* doctor do this? Are some more sensitive to the issue than others?

As SH mentioned you just need to ask for the 25(OH)D blood test. Just about any doctor should be able to order it for you. There was also an organization out there that was doing a bit of a study and you could get the test for something like $40, but I seem to have misplaced the link.

I believe the "optimal" level on the test paperwork will probably be around 30ish. I know when my mom had her levels tested she came back as a 43 or something along those lines and nothing else was said.

[sunnysandiegan]

Thanks! I checked out that link, and will call our family doctor (and insurance companies) for comparison on the testing. DH & I have a high deductible healthcare plan, so I doubt it will be covered. DD has a different plan and hers may be covered.

DD fits the profile for potentially having optimal vitamin D levels!
I have a couple potential things stacked against me.
I doubt DH has adequate levels.

In addition to supplementing with more IUs of vitamin D3 (upping the dosage for DH and me taking some daily), what foods can increase vitamin D levels?

Thanks!