Vitamin D Deficiency

Vitamin D, which is generated after sun exposure, is the only vitamin produced in the skin. It controls over two thousand genes within the body and indirectly affects hormone levels, bone density, energy levels, and immune function. It has can also support well-being and serve as a natural preventative for common ailments.

According to ZRT Laboratory, about a third of Americans have a vitamin D deficiency. Common symptoms/complications linked to vitamin D deficiency include increased susceptibility to illness, periodontal disease and cavities, depression and other mental affective disorders, osteoporosis, multiple sclerosis, high blood pressure, fatigue, asthma, and various cancers (e.g. lung, breast, ovarian, and colon). Although vitamin D deficiency is not necessarily the cause of any of these diseases or disorders — there are other factors involved — a low vitamin D level is a common risk factor.

Many medical practitioners are not trained to seek nutritional deficiencies until there is a serious problem or disorder developing. Dr. Roberts has a deep understanding of the biochemical foundations of health, so she sees vitamins, minerals, and overall nutrition as critical to maintaining well-being. These are some of the first areas she reviews when optimizing a patient’s health.

Dr. Roberts monitors patients’ vitamin D levels and, when appropriate, optimizes them with medical-grade supplements. (Dosage depends on the patient’s other health conditions and laboratory results.) The body must also have magnesium, boron, and other vitamins and minerals to properly absorb vitamin D, so it is important to be monitored and advised by a professional such as Dr. Roberts who is able to manage supplement regimens.