Let us set something straight. Vitamin D is not a ”vitamin”, but a pre-HORMONE.

factors influencing your status levels

Now something that is not talked often is the importance of Mg (magnesium) in all processes that activate hormone-D. Magnesium is of key importance for all enzymes that metabolise hormone-D, in both liver and kidney.

As regarding to point 4, we know that inflammation soaks up at a high rate Mg in the body, increasing the need for it, while this happens, iron (Fe) will be increased (and iron is inflammatory). There are several steps before hormone-D is converted to its active form for us to benefit from its biological functions, and all these processes are directly dependent on the bioavailability of Mg in the body.

This is why I insist to not supplement Vitamin D without giving some thoughts to your other markers, this goes same for babies, children and older adults. Always with care.

the relation between vitamin d and Vitamin a

Vitamin D supplementation reduces liver vitamin A stores which also further lower the level of Vitamin A in blood. Vitamin D supplementation also acts as an immunosuppressant. VDR (vitamin D nuclear receptor) acts in the repression or transcription of thousands of genes, some associated with diseases such as cancer to multiple sclerosis. ”VDR is at the heart of innate immunity, being responsible for expression of most of the antimicrobial peptides, which are the body’s ultimate response to infection.” (Marshall TG., PMID: 18200565).

Vitamin A plays a key role in turning copper into ceruloplasmin protein (Cp). Ceruloplasmin helps iron transportation all throughout the body (PMCID: PMC4050113). 

Ceruloplasmin is known to regulate the production of TRH (thyroid releasing hormone) and the iron recycling system (the reticuloendothelial system). When iron doesn’t recycle properly, it does not metabolise, this leads to accumulated iron in tissues, increasing oxidative stress and hence increasing inflammation and negatively impacting metabolism.

INCREASE YOUR VITAMIN A INTAKE

You will need to address your diet by plenty of meat, liver, non-processed dairy, fish like mackerel, sardines, anchovies, tuna, rainbow trout, etc and reduce your vitamin D supplementation as this will deplete vitamin A stores. Remember there is no such thing as ”too much vitamin A” (I have a post on this also!).

I highly recommend reading this following study (PMID: 33897704) if you are interested in the protocol of those super-doses doctors so quickly recommend once they see a ”vitamin D deficiency” on (the incomplete) blood work they issued.

CAN YOU OPTIMISE YOUR PRE-HORMONE-D LEVELS ALL THROUGHOUT THE YEAR?

Sure! Here is a list of things you can do to reduce stress levels, address inflammation, and promote overall wellness:

1. Reduce stress levels: Find ways to decompress and relax. This could include practicing meditation, deep breathing exercises, or engaging in activities you enjoy.
2. Assess gut and liver health: Take the time to gather information about your gut and liver health. This can help you identify any inflammation or imbalances that may be contributing to your overall well-being. Consider checking out your latest post for more information.
3. Consume foods high in vitamin A, E, and K: Include foods in your diet that are naturally rich in vitamin A, E, and K. Some examples include liver, fish, shellfish, eggs and dairy.
4. Include magnesium-rich foods or supplements: Consume foods that are high in magnesium or consider supplementing with magnesium glycinate, especially during seasons of stress. Magnesium-rich foods include dark chocolate, mackerel, other seafood/shellfish, chicken breast, salmon, dairy, etc.
5. Get outside and soak up the sun: As much as possible, try to spend time outdoors and soak up some sunlight. Sun exposure helps the body produce vitamin D, which is beneficial for overall health and well-being.
6. Enjoy epsom salt baths regularly: Treat yourself to regular epsom salt baths. Epsom salt contains magnesium, which can help to relax the body and soothe muscle tension. It can also provide a calming effect on the mind.