Last year, the Vitamin D Society held its international symposium on ‘Vitamin D Disease Prevention’ here in Toronto. Medical and research experts from around the globe came to share the latest findings on the benefits of vitamin D. As we move into the dark, cold days of winter its critical to your health and performance at work and in the gym that you get your optimal intake… not just the bare minimum.

It is well understood that vitamin D levels drop throughout the winter months and that supplementation is required to maintain adequate levels. Most GP’s would recommend you take between 1,000-2,000 IU per day. While this may be enough for some, the experts have weighed in and the research supports the use of higher doses throughout the winter. The research shows most people are still losing vitamin D, even while supplementing with 1,000-2,000 IU per day. The panel of experts at the Vitamin D symposium now recommends varying dosing ranges, depending on your current levels. This will allow you to maintain your vitamin D status in the optimal range, between 100-150 nmol/L.

Vitamin D is essential for maintaining robust immunity over the winter months and also keeping your mood and cognitive function on track. If your vitamin D levels are low, you may get frequently sick, feel slow and tired at the office, or generally lack your normal energy and enthusiasm. Vitamin D is also crucial for maintaining healthy blood pressure, preventing cardiovascular disease and can help prevent diabetes, multiple sclerosis, and some cancers.

So, how can you get tested? It’s easy… a simple pin-prick blood spot test that takes only 5-minutes and will let you know exactly what your levels are. No need for blood draws or needles. Simply inquire at LPS reception and you can get your immunity and focus back on track!

Dr. Marc Bubbs ND, CSCS