Vitamin D supplements not working? 3 common mistakes people make, heart surgeon reveals
Vitamin D is often called the “sunshine vitamin,” yet nearly one billion people around the world are still deficient in it. Many people try to correct the problem by taking supplements, but sometimes their vitamin D levels remain low despite regular use.
According to Dr. Dmitry Yaranov, a heart transplant cardiologist from Memphis, the issue is often not the supplement itself. Instead, people may be taking it incorrectly, using the wrong dose, or missing important nutrients that help the body use vitamin D effectively.
In a recent Instagram video, Dr. Yaranov explained that he frequently sees patients who take vitamin D supplements consistently for months but still show low levels in blood tests. He says the solution is often simpler than most people think.
1. Taking Vitamin D the Wrong Way
One of the most common mistakes is taking vitamin D on an empty stomach. Since vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin, it needs dietary fat to be absorbed properly by the body.
Taking it with a meal that contains healthy fats can significantly improve absorption. Good options include eggs, avocados, nuts, olive oil, and fatty fish such as salmon.
2. Using the Wrong Dose
Many people assume that the same vitamin D dose works for everyone. However, the amount needed depends on how severe the deficiency is.
A standard maintenance dose may not be enough to correct a significant deficiency. Dr. Yaranov recommends checking vitamin D levels through a blood test and working with a healthcare professional to determine the right dosage.
3. Ignoring Magnesium
Vitamin D does not work alone. Magnesium plays a key role in helping the body activate and use vitamin D effectively.
If magnesium levels are low, the body may struggle to benefit from vitamin D supplements, even when they are taken regularly. Ensuring adequate magnesium intake through diet or supplements, if recommended by a doctor, may help improve results.
Key Takeaway
If your vitamin D supplements do not seem to be working, the problem may not be the supplement itself. Taking it with healthy fats, using the correct dose based on blood test results, and maintaining adequate magnesium levels can make a significant difference.
Before making changes to your supplement routine, consult a healthcare professional and consider getting your vitamin D levels tested.
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