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Understanding Liquid Vitamin D  

What is Liquid Vitamin D?  

Liquid vitamin D is a dietary supplement. Vitamin D is an essential fat-soluble vitamin that plays many important roles in the body, including supporting bone health and immune function. While the skin naturally produces vitamin D when exposed to sunlight, it can also be obtained through certain foods, such as fatty fish and fortified foods. For those who may have difficulty meeting their vitamin D needs through sunlight or diet alone, supplements (available as pills, liquid, or capsules) can provide an effective alternative. 

How the Liquid Form Enhances Vitamin D Absorption  

As far as potency and effectiveness, there is no significant difference among the liquid and tablet dosage forms of supplemental vitamin D. However, liquid vitamin D may be absorbed faster since it bypasses the step where the tablets have to be disintegrated by stomach acid before absorption. 

Comparing Liquid Vitamin D with Other Forms  

Vitamin D supplements are available in various dosage forms, including capsules, tablets, softgels, and a liquid solution. 

As mentioned, liquid vitamin D is considered equally effective as the tablet and capsule forms. However, the liquid form may be absorbed quicker and easier for the body to use, particularly for individuals with digestive issues or difficulty swallowing pills. This makes it a popular choice for infants, children, and older adults.

Liquid vitamin D can be slightly pricier than the other dosage forms. However, its ease of use and potential absorption benefits often justify the cost for those prioritizing convenience or enhanced effectiveness.

Should I Take Liquid Vitamin D?

Liquid vitamin D may be a good choice for you if one of the following applies:

• Difficulty swallowing: Adults with swallowing problems or difficulty swallowing pills might find liquid vitamin D easier to take. Liquid vitamin D can be mixed with water, juices, other drinks, and applesauce. Avoid giving Vitamin D with hot beverages.

• Babies and small children: Liquid vitamin D is suitable for babies and is easier for small children to swallow if they haven’t learned to swallow pills yet. Always check with your child’s doctor before giving them vitamin D. Use the dose-measuring syringe or dropper that comes with the liquid medicine to measure the dose accurately. 

• History of gastric bypass surgery: Liquid vitamin D does not require stomach acidity to be broken down and is suitable for people who have bariatric surgery.

• Preference to limit the number of pills: People who have multiple chronic illnesses or organ transplant patients who already need to take numerous tablets several times daily might prefer liquid vitamin D as an alternative. This can be taken as just a few drops mixed in with water and can reduce the pill burden.

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Health Benefits of Vitamin D  

Calcium Absorption and Healthy Bones

Vitamin D is an essential nutrient and necessary for the absorption of calcium. It also helps regulate calcium and phosphorous levels, ensuring proper bone growth and remodeling. A deficiency in Vitamin D can lead to conditions like rickets in children or osteoporosis in adults.

Immune System Support  

Vitamin D plays an important role in the functioning of the body’s immune system by enhancing the pathogen-fighting ability of immune cells. It may also help regulate overactive immune responses, reducing the risk of developing autoimmune disease such as multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis, and type 1 diabetes. However, a deficiency of vitamin D can increase the risk of infections, allergies, and autoimmune diseases.

Other Health Benefits

Research also suggests that vitamin D plays an important role in many cellular functions in the body and overall health. Vitamin D has neuroprotective, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties. It also supports muscle function and brain function. Research suggests long-term supplementation with vitamin D may help improve cardiovascular health and blood pressure levels, promote weight loss, and decrease the risk of certain cancers.  

Choosing the Right Liquid Vitamin D Product  

Factors to Consider: Potency and Ingredients  

Consider the following when choosing a dietary supplement such as liquid vitamin D: 

• Quality: Look for liquid vitamin D supplements from reputable brands and verify quality certificates and labels. 

• Ingredients: Check the label for ingredients like fillers, sweeteners, preservatives, additives, and sugar. Check the list of other ingredients in your dietary supplement. Avoid supplements with too many other ingredients. 

• Regulations: Look for verifications that the liquid vitamin D has been third-party tested for purity, potency, and stability. 

• Safety: Be aware that dietary supplements can have side effects and interact with other medications. 

• Current diet: Remember, dietary supplements are meant to complement a healthy diet, not replace it. 

• Customer rating and price: Read customer reviews and testimonials and compare prices with other liquid vitamin D products. 

Always consult a healthcare professional before taking any dietary supplement, including liquid vitamin D. Keep in mind that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not regulate dietary supplements in the same way that it regulates prescription and over-the-counter medications. 

You can save money on your liquid vitamin D prescription with a free BuzzRx discount coupon. For example, the 480-mL bottle of Cal-Quick brand liquid vitamin D which contains 10 mcg or 400 IU of vitamin D and 500 mg calcium per 5 mL may be under $23 with your BuzzRx discount card. 

Vegan and Plant-Based Options  

As mentioned, there are two types of Vitamin D: D2 (ergocalciferol) and D3 (cholecalciferol). D2 is plant-based, and D3 is obtained from lanolin, a waxy substance found in sheep's wool. While both types can support vitamin D levels, studies suggest that D3 is more effective in raising and maintaining optimal levels in the body. 

If you are a vegan or vegetarian, you can choose a vegan Vitamin D3 that does not contain lanolin, such as the Vitashine brand, which is made from a lichen plant species. This product is registered with The Vegan Society and has been approved by the Vegetarian Society. Vitashine comes in spray or chewable tablet form. 

If you want a liquid vitamin D that is vegan- and vegetarian-friendly, choose a vegan Vitamin D3 that does not contain lanolin. 

How to Use Liquid Vitamin D  

How Much Vitamin D Should I Take?

The daily vitamin D requirement varies from person to person and depends on various factors such as the person’s age, skin color, and underlying medication conditions. For example, older adults need higher amounts of vitamin D. People with darker skin make less vitamin D upon exposure to sunlight. Use of sunscreen can also affect vitamin D status. People with digestive issues may not absorb vitamins and other nutrients well and need to take supplements.

Two commonly available forms of vitamin D are D2 (ergocalciferol) and D3 (cholecalciferol). D3 is usually recommended due to its superior efficacy in raising blood vitamin D levels. 

Doctors recommend the following amounts of vitamin D in people of different ages:

• Infants and children: People under 18 years of age are advised to take 400 International Units (IU) to 600 IU of vitamin D per day.

• Adults under 65 years of age: The recommended dose of vitamin D in adults under 65 years of age is 800 IU (international units) daily. This is for vitamin D deficiency prevention in people who do not have adequate year-round sun exposure.

• Older adults age 65 and older: Adults 65 years of age and older should consume 800 IU to 1000 IU of vitamin D daily to reduce the risks of falls and fractures.

• In people with vitamin D deficiency: Treatment with an 8-week course of vitamin D3 6,000 IU daily or 50,000 IU weekly is recommended. A higher daily dose of 10,000 IU may be beneficial in high-risk adults.

Administration  

Measure the liquid form of vitamin D using a special medicine measuring device, spoon, or dropper. Do not use a regular household spoon because you may not get the correct dose.

Drop the liquid vitamin D directly into your mouth. You can also mix the liquid with food or other liquids like water or fruit juices.

For babies and young children, you can put one drop of liquid vitamin D on the pacifier or mother’s nipple. Make sure the child suckles for at least 30 seconds to get the full dose.

Storage and Safety Precautions  

• Most formulations of liquid vitamin D do not need to be refrigerated and can be stored at room temperature. They typically have a shelf life of 1 year or more at room temperature. 

• Store all medications and supplements, including liquid vitamin D, in a cool, dry place. 

• Do not store medicines in a bathroom cabinet where they can be exposed to heat and humidity. 

• Keep medications safely out of reach of children and pets. 

• Check the label and discard liquid vitamin D if it is past the expiration date.

Can I Put Liquid Vitamin D On My Skin?

You can put liquid vitamin D on your skin. Studies have found that topical application of liquid vitamin D directly on the skin is safe for most people. You may find that it acts as a moisturizer, reduces dryness, and makes your skin softer. However, if you have a skin condition, check with your dermatologist before using liquid vitamin D on your skin. Topical formulations of vitamin D have been used to treat skin conditions such as psoriasis. 

Purchase Options: Where to Buy Liquid Vitamin D?

OTC vs Prescription Vitamin D Supplements

OTC vitamin D supplements contain doses ranging from 400 IU to 2000 IU. Vitamin D2 50,000 IU is available by prescription only; however, vitamin D3 50,000 units do not require a doctor’s prescription, although it may need to be purchased from pharmacy staff behind the counter.

Online Platforms and In-Store Availability and Discounts  

You can compare the prices of over-the-counter liquid vitamin D supplements on online platforms like Amazon and Target as well as brick-and-mortar stores like Walgreens, CVS, etc. Some online platforms offer discounts and subscription services for regular supplies.

Discount Cards 

A BuzzRx savings card can help you save money on liquid vitamin D at Walgreens, CVS, and other local pharmacies in your area. 

Frequently Asked Questions and Expert Advice

What Is The Best Form Of Vitamin D for Absorption?

The best form of vitamin D for absorption is vitamin D3. Two forms of vitamin D are available as supplements: vitamin D3 and vitamin D2. Both can help to correct vitamin D deficiency, but most doctors recommend D3 because it is slightly more active, more easily absorbed, and easier for the body to use, and therefore, more effective in raising blood levels of vitamin D. Animals, including humans, produce vitamin D3 while vitamin D2 is the plant form. Another reason for using D3 is that it is naturally made in our bodies.

Is Vitamin D Better In Liquid Form?

Vitamin D in liquid form is not considered better than vitamin D in tablet form in terms of effectiveness. However, liquid vitamin D might have a slight advantage over the solid (tablet) form in that it is absorbed faster than the pills because it doesn’t need to be broken down by stomach acid. In addition, vitamin D in liquid form may be the better choice for certain people, such as babies, young children, and adults who have difficulty swallowing tablets.

Do I Need to Take a Vitamin D Supplement?

You may need to take a vitamin D supplement if your blood test shows a low vitamin D status. Some people need to take vitamin D supplementation year-round while others only need to take supplements when sun exposure is inadequate, such as during the winter months. 

The liquid form of vitamin D may be preferable if you need different doses of vitamin D in different seasons because the dosage can be adjusted more easily with liquid vitamin D. 

Talk to your doctor about the need for vitamin D supplements to ensure you’re getting enough vitamin D for a healthy immune system and strong bones.

Further Reading

Vitamin D Deficiency

Vitamin D deficiency is extremely common among adults worldwide, with about 1 billion people diagnosed. Low vitamin D levels can result from limited sun exposure, inadequate dietary intake, cancer, chronic kidney disease, liver disease, recent surgery, and disorders that affect fat absorption in the body, such as celiac disease and Crohn's disease. 

A doctor can perform a blood test to find out whether you have adequate or low vitamin D levels. They may do other tests to find the cause of vitamin D deficiency. Your healthcare provider will recommend the right dose of vitamin D supplementation depending on your age, health status, and vitamin D level. You can talk to your provider if you prefer vitamin D in liquid form over tablet or capsule form.

What Are The Long-Term Effects of Vitamin D Deficiency?

Vitamin D deficiency can lead to severe health complications, such as an increased risk of:

• Rickets (soft or weak bones in children) 

• Osteomalacia (soft or weak bones in adults)

These bone disorders are rare in the United States due to widespread availability of vitamin D fortified food and dairy products. 

Other health complications of vitamin D deficiency include osteopenia and osteoporosis (low bone mineral density). Osteopenia is considered a milder form of osteoporosis. In people with osteopenia, the bone density is lower than normal but not as severe as osteoporosis. Treating osteopenia can slow the progression of bone loss that leads to osteoporosis.

Complications of osteoporosis include falls and fractures, which can lead to further health complications, poor quality of life, and slow recovery, especially in the elderly population.

Can Too Much Vitamin D Be Harmful?

Yes, taking a large amount of vitamin D long-term can lead to vitamin D toxicity, which can be harmful and even dangerous. Signs of extremely high vitamin D levels include: 

• High vitamin D blood levels on blood test

• Elevated blood calcium levels 

• Nausea and vomiting

• Poor appetite

• Constipation 

• Bone loss

• Kidney failure 

If you’ve been taking over-the-counter vitamin D supplements and are experiencing any of these symptoms, consult your healthcare professional as soon as possible.