These vitamin D3 capsules by Pure Encapsulations deliver 1,000 IU of vitamin D3 in easy-to-swallow vegetable capsules. Vitamin D3 is known to enhance the absorption and retention of calcium, playing a key role in supporting bone health. D3 may also play a role in colon, cardiovascular and cellular health. Because of changing UV levels in the atmosphere, many people limit sun exposure and thus limit their intake of the sunshine vitamin, vitamin D3. In addition, research has shown that the body's ability to absorb vitamin D3 declines with age.

How the Body Uses Vitamin D3

Bone Health Vitamin D3 is best known for its role in supporting bone health. It works by promoting the absorption of bone strengthening minerals, such as calcium and phosphorus, and reducing urinary calcium loss both essential functions for maintaining adequate mineral levels within the body. Without the right balance of minerals, the bones may become weak and brittle. Many studies have shown that vitamin D3 supplementation along with calcium helps to support healthy bones, but recent research indicates that vitamin D3 supplementation alone may also have a positive impact on bone health.

Cellular Health Studies have shown that vitamin D helps promote healthy cellular function, which can support colon health. This vitamin has also been shown to provide general cellular support by helping to maintain healthy angiogenesis. This keeps body's cells, including those of the breast and prostate, in good health as it supports immune cell activity and maintains healthy cell metabolism. Other studies have suggested that vitamin D3, such as that found in these supplements by Pure Encapsulations, may also play a role in maintaining healthy glucose metabolism (because vitamin D receptors are found on the islet cells of the pancreas). However, more research must be done on this topic.

Cardiovascular Support Recent research has shown that vitamin D3 may provide some cardiovascular support, which may possibly be due to its role in calcium metabolism. It may also be effective because of its ability to help maintain healthy plasma rennin function.

Where Does Pure Encapsulations Get its Vitamin D3?

The vitamin D3 in these vegetable capsules is derived from the cholesterol in lanolin (the fat found in wool). In addition, hypo-allergenic plant fiber is taken from pine cellulose. Pure Encapsulations also uses medium chain triglycerides from coconut and palm oil, but on the vitamin D3 liquid.

Vitamin D Deficiency

If you think you may be deficient in vitamin D, you can visit your doctor and ask for a blood test. Adequate levels are defined as 30 to 100 ng/ml; however, recent research has shown that levels between 80 to 100 ng/ml are required for optimal health. The best source of vitamin D is sunlight, so if you must limit sun exposure (either for safety reasons or because you live far from the equator), it is advised that you take at least 1,000 IU of vitamin D3 daily.

These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). These products are not meant to diagnose, treat or cure any disease or medical condition. Please consult your doctor before starting any exercise or nutritional supplement program or before using these or any product during pregnancy or if you have a serious medical condition.