Vitamin D

Why is vitamin D important?

Vitamin D controls how much calcium, iron, magnesium, and zinc you can absorb from your food. If you do not receive enough vitamin D, you could be at risk from weak bones, aches and pains and other more serious complications including heart disease and cancer.

Some foods are a good source of vitamin D, such as fatty fish, egg yolks and milk. However, the majority of your vitamin D is made by your own body when exposed to sunlight. In the country, for about half the year there is not enough sun for our bodies to make enough vitamin D. For the rest of the year, if you spend time inside, fully clothed outside or wearing sun cream, it is likely you will not get enough sun to meet your vitamin D requirements. Vitamin D supplements can be helpful, but it is always a good idea to test your vitamin D levels to check if you do have a vitamin D deficiency.

What are the signs and symptoms of vitamin D deficiency?

Vitamin D deficiency is a common health problem. Not enough vitamin D in your diet or not getting enough exposure to sunlight can result in you suffering from various symptoms including:

• Weakened bones
• Aches and pains in your bones and joints
• Weakened immune system making you more likely to suffer from colds and flu

There is also evidence that a lack of vitamin D plays a role in the onset of Type 1 Diabetes, particularly in children and young adults. Research findings suggested that a vitamin D deficiency can predict the risk of major cardiovascular problems including heart attacks, heart failure, stroke and even death.

Who should get tested?

There are certain high-risk groups for vitamin D deficiency, including individuals:

• With darker skin pigmentation
• Who live in places where there is limited sunlight
• Who spend little time outdoors
• Who use sunscreens and protection
• Who are older

If you suffer from Crohn's Disease, Celiac Disease and Cystic Fibrosis, you are also at a higher risk of Vitamin D deficiency as these conditions reduce the body's ability to absorb vitamin D from food.

How do I get tested?

Our Better2Know vitamin D tests are simple, quick, and easy. We can take a small blood sample at a clinic of your choice, and we will send your sample to our country accredited laboratory for analysis. Once analysed, we will be able to tell you know if your vitamin D levels are healthy or if you should consider taking vitamin D supplements if your test reveals your levels of vitamin B12 are low.

Three reasons to choose the Better2Know Vitamin D test

• The Better2Know Vitamin D test will help to show if you have a shortage or excess of Vitamin D
• Men and women who spend a lot of time indoors may have low Vitamin D
• A lack of Vitamin D may lead to long term health problems

Who is the Vitamin D test for?

This test is designed for men and women who are concerned about their Vitamin D levels.

How do I schedule my appointment?

To book your appointment, simply click on the ”Book Your Appointment” button located at the top of the page or call our booking team who are available 24/7.

What will happen at my appointment?

Your blood sample will be taken by a friendly clinician. They will send it to our accredited laboratory for analysis. Your appointment will take around 10 to 15 minutes.

How will I receive my test results?

Your test results will be securely uploaded to your online Patient Area as soon as they are available. We will email or SMS you when your results are ready.

What if my Vitamin D levels are outside the normal range?

Your Better2Know doctor will be able to discuss your results with you if you would like. They can discuss ways of improving your Vitamin D levels.