Vitamin D Tablets

Vitamin D Tablets & Bone Health

Vitamin D is essential, along with calcium, magnesium, and other vital bone health nutrients when it comes to building strong, healthy bones and teeth. While Vitamin D is produced in the body during exposure to sunlight, studies have shown that the vast majority of us are deficient in this key vitamin, which puts us at increased risk of low mineral density, soft, brittle bones, fractures, and osteoporosis. Indeed, the widespread use of sunscreen and our collective avoidance of the outdoors during the long winter months mean that our bodies are not synthesizing sufficient quantities of vitamin D. In response, Health Canada recommends daily vitamin D supplementation whether it's in liquid or tablet form from the very first day of birth through our twilight years to keep your bone health strong and well.

Vitamin D is one of the most widely used dietary supplements, along with vitamin C, calcium, magnesium, iron, multivitamins, omega-3 fatty acids, and greens. Unsurprisingly, vitamin D comes in all shapes, sizes, flavour profiles, and potencies to fit everyone's health status, needs, and personal preferences. When it comes to dietary supplements, tablets are arguably the most popular format for a few reasons, not the least of which is the price point. Indeed, tablets are straightforward to produce and don't call for a lot of fancy equipment, which means you don't have to fork over an arm and a leg to buy them. 

Moreover, because they are so compact, tablets physically allow for a higher concentration of the active compound (in this case, vitamin D) versus other delivery formats like capsules. On the flip side, tablets call for tableting agents (excipients), which are intended to hold the pill together and improve the taste, texture, and appearance. While some excipients can be naturally sourced, the vast majority are not, so many people prefer to stay away from them.

Benefits of Vitamin D Tablets

• Helps Build and Maintain Strong Bones and Teeth
• Increases Absorption Of Bone Minerals Like Calcium & Phosphorus
• May Prevent The Loss Of Bone Mineral Density & Osteoporosis
• Regulates Immune Function

Who Needs Vitamin D? 

Hospitalized or convalescing individuals, as well as exclusively breastfed babies and older adults, are more susceptible to vitamin D deficiency. In addition, those with more melanin (darker skin tone), people with low sun exposure, obese individuals, and those with GI conditions that affect their ability to absorb fat may also be prime candidates for vitamin D supplementation. A healthcare practitioner may also recommend vitamin D tablets for bone health or if your immune system seems compromised (increased susceptibility to colds, the flu, and other infections; difficulty getting over infections; autoimmune diseases; impaired wound healing); as well as to help regulate mood and address symptoms of mood disorders such as anxiety and depression.

Final Thoughts on Vitamin D Tablets

When it comes to vitamin D, it's important to note that it is a fat-soluble nutrient. It is not absorbed directly into the bloodstream but rather via the small intestine and transported through the lymphatic system before it is released into the bloodstream. As such, conventional wisdom suggests an oil-based capsule or softgels would yield better absorption. Interestingly, however, research has shown that vitamin D3 supplementation with tablets and oil-based drops or softgels is equally efficient at raising serum concentrations of vitamin D, regardless of how the nutrient is absorbed. As such, studies confirm that as long as you select a vitamin D supplement from a trusted and reputable brand, the delivery format has little impact on how well it can ultimately correct vitamin D deficiency.