Vitamin D is an essential nutrient that plays a vital role in many bodily functions, including bone health, immune function, and cell growth. Unfortunately, many people around the world are deficient in vitamin D, including in India.
One of the best ways to determine your vitamin D status is to get a blood test. However, there are two different types of vitamin D tests available: 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 (1,25-(OH)2D3) and 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D). Which test is right for you?
1,25-Dihydroxyvitamin D3
1,25-(OH)2D3 is the most active form of vitamin D in the body. It is produced in the kidneys from 25(OH)D. 1,25-(OH)2D3 binds to vitamin D receptors in cells throughout the body and regulates a variety of genes.
25-Hydroxyvitamin D
25(OH)D is the storage form of vitamin D in the body. It is produced in the liver from vitamin D3 that is either obtained from the diet or synthesized in the skin from sunlight exposure. 25(OH)D is the most commonly measured form of vitamin D in blood tests.
Which Test is Right for You?
The best vitamin D test for you will depend on your individual situation.
If you are concerned about your vitamin D status because you have symptoms of vitamin D deficiency, such as bone pain, muscle weakness, or fatigue, your doctor may order a 25(OH)D test. A 25(OH)D test is also a good option if you are at high risk for vitamin D deficiency, such as if you are elderly, have dark skin, or have certain medical conditions such as kidney disease or inflammatory bowel disease.
If you have a kidney disease or are taking certain medications, your doctor may order a 1,25-(OH)2D3 test to monitor your vitamin D status and make sure that you are getting enough vitamin D.
Interpretation of Results
The optimal level of vitamin D in the blood is still under debate. However, most experts agree that a 25(OH)D level of at least 30 ng/mL is desirable. If your 25(OH)D level is below 20 ng/mL, you are considered to have vitamin D deficiency.
The interpretation of 1,25-(OH)2D3 levels is more complex. 1,25-(OH)2D3 levels can be affected by a variety of factors, including kidney function, parathyroid hormone levels, and calcium levels. Therefore, it is important to discuss your 1,25-(OH)2D3 results with your doctor to determine if they are appropriate for you.
Conclusion
Vitamin D testing is an important tool for assessing your vitamin D status and determining if you need to supplement with vitamin D. If you are concerned about your vitamin D status, talk to our Lab test experts about which vitamin D test is right for you.
Here are some additional tips for getting enough vitamin D:
Get regular sun exposure. Aim for 10-15 minutes of sun exposure on your bare skin, 2-3 times per week.
Eat foods that are rich in vitamin D, such as fatty fish, eggs, and fortified dairy products.
Consider taking a vitamin D supplement if found deficient in blood test, Talk to your doctor about the right dosage for you.
Vitamin D is an essential nutrient for good health. By getting enough vitamin D, you can help to protect your bones, immune system, and overall health.
About Author & Compiler
Sharad Mishra
Clinical Pharmacist, Lab Diagnostic Expert, Lab Franchise Consultant, Diet Psychologist, Believe in Simplicity & on a Mission to Improve Lives
Bsc, B Pharmacy, ICMS- Sydney- Competitive Edge in Management, Professional Diploma in Nutrition, Professional Diploma in Health & Fitness (EQF Level V), Diploma in Sports Nutrition, IIT Madras Certificate in Electrocardiogram- Interpretation & Application in Clinical Practice, IIT Kanpur Diploma in Introduction to Advanced Cognitive Processes, Certificate in ISO 15189-2022- Medical Laboratories Quality Assurance & Competence CPD Certified - Looks after Lab Franchisee Model of Ranbaxy lab
Author is having more than 19 years of experience in Lab Diagnostic, Operations, Lab Equipment OEM & Pharmaceutical Operations, Over the course of his corporate career, Sharad Mishra has written various articles on Lab test interpretation, Sales & Marketing, as well as on Drug Delivery module, apart from such articles and short notes, Sharad Mishra has also started its Youtube Channel (http://www.youtube.com/c/SKMHealthMythology), which talks about various aspects right from Covid 19 pandemic to health & some interesting facts about mythology.
Sharad Mishra is also a licensed pharmacist with experience & interest in infectious disease, metabolic diseases i.e. diabetes, hypertension education & management. He has a passion for personalized patient care and believes that education is essential to living a healthy life. His goal is to motivate individuals to find ways to manage their chronic conditions & also started online learning programs to tackle & reverse metabolic issues i.e. SugarSolve, PcosSolve & FatSolve , these programs are designed to reverse diabetes, PCOS & weight issue without medicines on the principles of Human Physiology.
Work aside, Sharad Mishra is a photographer and lives his passion for nature photography.
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