Vitamin D test

Vitamin D is essential for the human body as it is involved in a wide range of functions, including calcium and phosphorus metabolism, immune system regulation, muscle function and bone health. Insufficient levels of vitamin D can affect health and may be associated with a range of diseases and conditions including osteoporosis, osteomalacia, immune dysfunction and other disorders.

Vitamin D testing is important for the following reasons:

• To detect vitamin D deficiency or excess: The test determines whether there is enough or too little vitamin D in the body. This helps diagnose vitamin D deficiency or overdose, which may require appropriate correction.
• Assess bone health: Vitamin D is important for bone health. The results of this test can help identify the risk of osteoporosis or monitor the effectiveness of osteoporosis treatment.
• Monitoring chronic disease or the progression of certain conditions: Vitamin D testing can be useful for monitoring and evaluating the progression of certain diseases such as autoimmune diseases, diabetes, cancer, etc. and the effectiveness of treatment.

Key functions of vitamin D:

• Helps the body absorb calcium and phosphorus;
• Maintains healthy bones;
• Strengthens the immune system;
• Regulates gene function and promotes cell growth;
• Involved in growth and maturation;
• Regulates blood pressure;
• Supports the nervous system.

Sources of Vitamin D:

The primary natural source of vitamin D is sunlight – up to 90% of the body’s vitamin D is synthesized in the skin when exposed to ultraviolet B (UVB) rays from the sun. Food products are also sources of vitamin D. For example, it can be found in mushrooms, oats, fatty fish, caviar, egg yolks, liver, milk, and butter. However, it is important to note that food generally contains only small amounts of vitamin D, so it may be difficult to meet the body’s needs through diet alone.

Symptoms of Vitamin D Deficiency:

• Muscle and back pain
• Decreased bone mineral density
• Slow wound healing
• Symptoms of depression
• Hair loss
• Weight gain
• Anxiety
• Fatigue
• Insomnia
• Frequent illnesses and infections

Vitamin D deficiency can contribute to the development of various chronic conditions, including osteoporosis, cardiovascular diseases, and even certain cancers. In children, a lack of vitamin D may cause rickets, respiratory issues, and other health problems.

Vitamin D Excess and Its Symptoms:

Vitamin D excess (overdose) is much less common than deficiency, but it can be just as dangerous. It is considered excessive when blood levels exceed 50 ng/mL.

Symptoms of Vitamin D Overdose:

• Loss of appetite
• Increased thirst
• Nausea, vomiting
• Constipation
• Irritability, lethargy, drowsiness

Over time, an excessive amount of vitamin D in the body can lead to liver, kidney, pancreas, or heart dysfunction.

When to Test Vitamin D Levels and the Cost:

A vitamin D blood test helps determine the concentration of vitamin D, prevent deficiency, and detect deviations from normal levels. It is recommended as a preventive measure once or twice a year. The cost of a vitamin D test is generally lower than that of many other nutritional tests, typically starting from €15.

Normal Vitamin D Levels in Blood (Adults):

• Optimal: 30–50 ng/mL
• Mild deficiency: 20–30 ng/mL
• Severe deficiency: less than 20 ng/mL