Vitamin D could be a nutrient that's helpful for bone formation. vitamin D is additionally needed by the body to take care of a healthy heart, brain, and muscles. Vitamin D is created naturally once the skin is exposed to direct sunlight. In fact, most of the need for vitamin D is met through exposure to sunlight. In addition, vitamin D is additionally contained in many kinds of food, like mushrooms, egg yolks, and fish.

When calcium levels in the body decrease, the parathyroid glands will stimulate the intestines and kidneys to produce vitamin D to absorb more calcium. However, not a few people who experience vitamin D deficiency. This typically happens once the body doesn't get enough sunlight, or isn't effective at absorbing vitamin D. In these conditions, supplements are needed to prevent vitamin D deficiency.

The main types of vitamin D are vitamin D2 and vitamin D3. Vitamin D2 comes from plants and foods fortified with vitamin D2 itself, while vitamin D3 comes from animals.

Both types of vitamins are available in the form of tablets, capsules, and syrups.

Precautions Before Using Vitamin D:

Discuss with your doctor before using vitamin D, especially if you have allergies to foods, drugs, or other ingredients contained in this supplement.
Before taking vitamin D, tell your doctor if you have got frequent headaches, have a history of high blood pressure, kidney stones, and autoimmune diseases.
Tell your doctor if you have got a history of liver disease, heart condition, lung disease, skin problem, thyroid disease, and stomach disorders.
Immediately see a doctor if you experience symptoms of a drug allergy or vitamin D overdose.

How to Use Vitamin D Correctly

Vitamin and mineral supplements are consumed to complement the body's needs for vitamins and minerals, especially when the intake of vitamins and minerals from food cannot meet the body's needs. Keep in mind, supplements are only used as a complement to the body's nutritional needs, not as a substitute for nutrients from food. There are several conditions that require the intake of supplements, such as being stricken with an illness, pregnant, or taking drugs that can interfere with the metabolism of vitamins and minerals.

Take vitamin D supplements according to the directions on the package. Vitamin D should be taken with food so that it is more easily absorbed by the body. If you want to take vitamin D in syrup form, use the measuring spoon included in the package. Do not use a regular tablespoon because the measurements will be different.

Interaction of Vitamin D with Other Drugs

There are a number of drugs that have the potential to cause reactions when taken with vitamin D, including:

Aluminum (found in antacids). The effect can increase aluminum levels in the body.
Anticonvulsants, prednisone, or laxatives. The effect can reduce calcium absorption.
Cholestyramine and orlistat. The effect can decrease the absorption of vitamin D.
Calcipotriol or paricalcitol. The effect may increase the side effects of calcipotriol and paricalcitol.
Digoxin and verapamil. The effect can increase the risk of heart problems.
Diuretics and diltiazem. The effect can increase calcium levels in the body.

Side Effects and Dangers of Vitamin D

Vitamin D is safe for the body when used in recommended doses. However, if used in excess of the dose, vitamin D is at risk of causing the following side effects: