Vitamin D3 is a member of the family of compounds known simply as Vitamin D, which also includes vitamins D1, and D2. Vitamin D, which is both a nutrient we eat and a hormone that our body makes, is a fat-soluble vitamin. It helps in the absorption and retainment of calcium and phosphorus that are critical for building bone. 

Additionally, laboratory studies have also shown that vitamin D is needed for a healthy immune system, digestive system, heart and mental health, blood sugar regulation, fertility, and resistance to cancer, help control the effect of infections and reduce inflammation. 

Many organs and tissues of our body have receptors for vitamin D, which suggest important roles beyond bone health. Vitamin D which is also called the “sunshine vitamin” because our skin makes it when exposed to the sun is also the most common nutrient deficiency that is bothering many.

Role of Vitamin D in the body

Vitamin D acts like a hormone. It's produced in one part of the body (the skin) and travels through to act on another part (the bones). 

Vitamin D (calciferol) isn’t “active” in our bodies unless it's converted into the active form in order for it to do it's functions. This is a two-step process. First, the liver converts it into 25(OH)D (calcidiol). Then, that is converted into 1,25(OH)D (calcitriol) in the kidneys. It’s this third, calcitriol, form that’s active in the body.

And because vitamin D is fat-soluble, excess vitamin D gets stored in the liver and isn’t flushed out in the urine like other vitamins when present in excess. 

Vitamin D plays a critical role in many bodily functions:

• It helps maintain adequate blood levels of calcium and phosphorus, which is necessary for healthy bone mineralization

• An adequate intake of vitamin D may support good immune function and reduce the risk of autoimmune diseases

• Vitamin D3 can help to prevent the development of certain types of cancer

• Vitamin D receptors located throughout the brain and the spinal cord helps with brain functions

• Vitamin D benefits your daily mood, especially in the colder, darker months

• Studies have found that taking a Vitamin D3 supplement, eating more foods that are rich in this vitamin, or simply getting more sun – coupled with eating a well-balanced diet and exercising – can make it easier to lose weight

Symptoms of Vitamin D Deficiency 

In most cases vitamin D deficiency does not present with symptoms. However, a chronic deficiency can cause hypocalcemia, a calcium deficiency disease, and hyperparathyroidism. 

These conditions can lead to secondary symptoms including:

• bone fragility, especially in older adults
• osteoporosis
• bone pain
• fatigue
• muscle twitching
• muscle weakness
• myalgias, or muscle pain
• arthralgias, or joint stiffness

If Vitamin D deficiency continues for a long period, it may result in complications like:

• cardiovascular conditions
• autoimmune problems
• neurological diseases
• infections
• pregnancy complications
• certain cancers, including breast, prostate, and colon

Diagnosis of Vitamin D Deficiency

Low levels of vitamin D is a common problem that can lead to bone disorders and other medical problems. The Vitamin D panel is used to detect if you are deficient in Vitamin D by measuring the level of vitamin D in your blood. It helps to know if you have the required levels that is needed for your body to work well. 

Vitamin D testing can let you know if you need to increase your vitamin D levels. Testing 25(OH)D is the most accurate way to measure how much vitamin D is in your blood. Two forms of vitamin D are measured in the blood, 25-hydroxyvitamin D and 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D.

Other names for the Vitamin D test are: 25-hydroxyvitamin D, 25(OH)D, cholecalciferol test, ergocalciferol test, calcidiol test, vitamin D2 test, vitamin D3 test.

SignificanceOf The Vitamin D Test

A vitamin D test detects low levels of vitamin D in the blood. Hence, once detected, you can treat it with supplements before it causes health problems.

If you are suffereing from a known bone disorder or a problem absorbing calcium, a vitamin D test is recommended to see if a lack of vitamin D is causing your condition. 

A Vitamin D test will be ordered by the healthcare provider if you have:

• Osteomalacia, soft bones, often with muscle weakness
• Low bone density, which can lead to osteoporosis.
• Rickets, a problem with bone growth in children

Also if you have other chronic (long-term) medical conditions, a Vitamin D test will be suggested because, vitamin D can affect many parts of your body.  

A normal result is a good indicator, but remember to keep a regular track of your levels by doing a periodic testing. An abnormal Vitamin D results could indicate you have either a deficiency or an insufficient amount of Vitamin D. In consultation with your physician, you may take supplements or medication as prescribed. 

If the total vitamin D level shows excess vitamin D, it is most likely that you are getting too much Vitamin D from supplements. Though this is very uncommon, if it happens, you'll need to stop taking these supplements to reduce your vitamin D levels. Because, too much vitamin D can cause serious damage to your organs and blood vessels.

Good To Note

The right amount of Vitamin D is an essential element for not just your bone health, but for the effective functioning of the other organs. It also helps keep numerous diseases at bay. But too much or too little of the valuable vitamin can also put your health at risk. Getting a periodic Vitamin D Panel test is the best way to keep a track of your levels.