Outside of the tropics, where it would be possible to get sunshine all year-round, it can be tricky to make up for insufficient exposure to natural sunlight.
Dr. Morse doesn’t deem it important to supplement with vitamin D, but you may do so, if you feel it necessary. At the very least try to get as much indirect sunlight as you can get, especially if you’re sensitive to direct sunlight.
Before you decide on supplementing, check for possible contraindications first. If there none in your situation, proceed to have your vitamin D levels tested to evaluate where you’re currently at and – if determined necessary – what quantity you should supplement with.
The most accurate test is called:
- 25-Hydroxy-Vitamin D; also referred to as
- 25(OH)D; or
- Vitamin D, 25-OH, Total.
The other, more inaccurate test is called 1,25-dihydroxy-vitamin D. This test isn't recommended because calcitriol (1,25-dihydroxy-vitamin D) tends to fluctuate in accordance with dietary calcium intake, resulting in potential misleading results.
While supplementing, be sure to have your levels re-checked every 2 months to determine if progress is being made or if it’s time to decrease/increase the amount supplemented or discontinue taking the vitamin D entirely.
More information (including usage recommendations) can be found on the Vitamin D Council’s website.
The following are vitamin D3 product recommendations:
- Vitamin D-3 Drops (4000 IU) by Nature’s Answer (non-vegan)
- Vitamin D3 Vegan (1000 IU) by Nordic Naturals (through iHerb.com) (vegan friendly)
- Whole Food Vitamin D3 (2500 IU/veggie capsule) by Source of Life (vegan friendly)