Vitamin D Deficiency
Vitamin D, the 'sunshine vitamin,' is a fat-soluble vitamin best known for its role in bone health. It is also involved in muscle metabolism, neurological function, cardiovascular health, and immunity. Symptoms of bone pain and muscle weakness can indicate vitamin D deficiency. However, even without symptoms, too little vitamin D can pose health risks.
Low blood levels of the vitamin have been associated with:
- increased risk of death from cardiovascular disease
- cognitive impairment in older adults
- osteoporosis or osteomalacia
- severe asthma in children
- rickets, in children
- cancer
Research suggests that vitamin D could play a role in the prevention and treatment of a number of different conditions, including type1 and type 2 diabetes, hypertension, glucose intolerance, and multiple sclerosis.
Genetics
Genetic variances can significantly impact vitamin D availability and response.
The GC gene controls the levels of vitamin D-binding protein, which transports vitamin D in the circulation. A less functional GC gene can imply that higher intake is needed to increase vitamin D status.
The VDR gene provides instructions for making a protein called vitamin D receptor, which allows the body to respond to vitamin D. VDR SNPs indicate that higher vitamin D levels are needed to achieve the desired effects.
Lifecode Gx® Reports
We test for the GC and VDR genes in our Nutrient Core Report.