Understanding the Vitamin D Test

Vitamin D is an essential nutrient that supports healthy bones and teeth.
A deficiency may also contribute to weakened immunity and an increased risk
of depression.

There are two important forms of Vitamin D:
Vitamin D2 and Vitamin D3.
Vitamin D2 primarily comes from fortified foods such as breakfast cereals,
milk, and other dairy products. Vitamin D3 is produced by your body when
exposed to sunlight and is also found in foods like eggs and fatty fish,
including salmon, tuna, and mackerel.

In the bloodstream, Vitamin D2 and Vitamin D3 are converted into
25-hydroxyvitamin D (25[OH]D). A Vitamin D blood test measures
the level of 25(OH)D in your blood. Abnormal levels may indicate bone disorders,
nutritional deficiencies, organ dysfunction, or other medical conditions.

Included: 1 Vitamin D testing kit and a pre-addressed,
postage-paid return envelope.

The Importance of the Vitamin D Test

The Basic Benefits Vitamin D screening kit is a valuable tool for monitoring
your Vitamin D levels to support strong bones and teeth, regulate immune
function, and maintain heart, lung, muscle, and joint health. Proper Vitamin D
levels may also help reduce the risk of depression.

Test Preparation Requirements

No special preparation is required for a Vitamin D test.

Understanding Your Results

If your results indicate a Vitamin D deficiency, it may be due to:

• Insufficient exposure to sunlight
• Low dietary intake of Vitamin D
• Difficulty absorbing Vitamin D from food

Low Vitamin D levels may also indicate that your body is not utilizing the
vitamin effectively and could signal kidney or liver disease.

Excessive Vitamin D levels are most commonly caused by overuse of vitamin
supplements. High levels of Vitamin D can damage organs and blood vessels.

To better understand your results, consult your healthcare provider.

Next Steps for Abnormal Results

If your Vitamin D levels are outside the normal range, we recommend sharing
your lab results with your healthcare provider for further evaluation,
discussion, and treatment guidance.