Vitamin D3 is manufactured by irradiating 7-dehydrocholesterol obtained from the lanolin in sheep’s wool with ultraviolet B radiation. Vitamin D2 (ergocalciferol) is manufactured from irradiation of ergosterol from yeast. 3, 14 – 16 Although humans produce vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol) endogenously, vitamin D supplements exist in 2 distinct forms. 8, 13 For the correction of vitamin D deficiency, many treatment modalities that are heterogeneous with respect to dose, dosing interval, and formulation of vitamin D supplementation are available. 3 – 12 Despite ongoing controversy, many experts agree that vitamin D deficiency is defined as circulating levels of 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25 D) less than 20 ng/mL. 1, 2 In addition, it is associated with a variety of chronic diseases such as certain cancers, cardiovascular diseases, autoimmune diseases, muscle weakness and chronic pain, diabetes (types 1 and 2), schizophrenia, and depression. Vitamin D deficiency leads to secondary hyperparathyroidism, increased bone turnover and bone loss, predisposing individuals to osteoporosis and osteoporotic fractures. The increased awareness of vitamin D deficiency and its consequences on optimal health requires an appropriate evaluation of vitamin D repletion regimens for deficient patients.
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |