In the orthomolecular world, the importance of high dosages of vitamin D has been known for quite some time. Gradually, a flood of unequivocal research results is also convincing national and European governmental institutions. Both the recommended daily amounts and the maximum allowed dosages continue to rise.

This product contains 25 mcg of vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol), expressed in 1000 IU (international units), derived from sheep wool fat. Vitamin D3 1000 IU Softgels offer a high dosage to supplement the diet and the body's own production through sunlight. Preferably, have your vitamin D level checked and dose according to blood values.

Vitamin D3 most effective 
The most common forms of vitamin D (calciferol) are vitamin D2 (ergocalciferol) and vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol). Ergocalciferol is a plant-based form, while cholecalciferol is derived from an animal source but is also produced by humans in the skin under the influence of ultraviolet light, such as the sun (hence the nickname 'sunshine vitamin'). These forms of vitamin D are converted in the liver into the metabolite calcidiol (25-hydroxyvitamin D). Calcidiol is converted as needed in the kidneys and other cells and tissues into the biologically active hormone calcitriol (1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D). In terms of supplementation, however, it is important to know that vitamin D3 appears to be more effective than vitamin D2 in most cases in increasing calcidiol in the blood and ultimately calcitriol.

Vitamin D requirement
Vitamin D can be produced in the skin, but for many in the Netherlands, this is something that does not work well. For this, one needs to be outside for at least 15 to 30 minutes every day between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. However, many people have jobs that keep them indoors during these hours. Moreover, the weather can often be unfavourable. And if people do get sun exposure with uncovered skin, they often apply sunscreen quickly. Furthermore, the sun is not strong enough from November to May. Most people, therefore, do not produce enough vitamin D (especially in these months) and do not get enough from their diet. Many vitamin D experts also believe that the optimal vitamin D level is higher than indicated in regular advice. They believe that the calcidiol level should be at least 75 nanomoles per litre of blood (nmol/l) for everyone, while the Health Council considers 30 nmol/l (or 50 nmol/l from age 70) to be sufficient. The dietary standards and supplementation advice for vitamin D are based on this.

The function of vitamin D in the body
Knowledge about the role and importance of vitamin D in the human body has increased enormously in recent decades. Scientists have found receptors for vitamin D in more than 30 different types of tissues and organs, including immune cells, muscles, and bones. This means that vitamin D has a broad field of action and supports health in various ways. It is particularly known that vitamin D is good for bones and teeth. Vitamin D is necessary for the absorption of calcium and phosphorus from food and for maintaining normal levels of both nutrients in the blood. These minerals, in turn, are needed for the mineralisation of bones and teeth. Vitamin D is also good for the muscles, as a vitamin D receptor is also present in muscle tissue. Activation of this promotes the production of proteins in the muscles, which is important for their function. Vitamin D is also involved in the cell division process and the production of new cells and tissues. Additionally, vitamin D works immunomodulating, meaning it regulates within the immune system. Vitamin D receptors are present on T-helper cells, a form of white blood cells that play an important role in certain processes within the immune system. In this way, vitamin D is involved in many ways in the complex immune system.

Permitted health claims:

• is important for calcium and phosphorus absorption for maintaining strong bones and teeth
• good for the muscles
• contributes to the process of cell renewal
• supports the body's defence system

Ingredients:
Soy oil (Glycine max, fruit), beef gelatin (softgel capsule), humectant (glycerol), purified water, cholecalciferol.

Does not contain:
Gluten, lactose, preservatives, and synthetic fragrances, colours, and flavours.