The doctor named the reasons for the indigestion of vitamin D

Sometimes taking vitamin D does not give the expected effect: its concentration in the blood does not reach the planned level, well-being does not improve, and undesirable side effects occur. The main reasons that this element "passes by" the body are most often associated with impaired bile production, genetic features, and vitamin K deficiency. Vera Seryozhina, an expert doctor at the LabQuest medical company, told Izvestia on October 29.

"Vitamin D is a fat—soluble prohormone, which has receptors in all cells of the body. It affects the absorption of calcium, the formation of bone tissue, the support of the immune system, the synthesis of steroid hormones and the regulation of nervous system functions and the prevention of seasonal depression, and these are not all its biological effects. For its normal absorption, emulsification with the participation of bile is necessary. But if bile secretion is disrupted, vitamin D does not enter the bloodstream, no matter how regularly it is taken," the specialist said.

According to her, bile secretion can be "trained" with regular meals with enough healthy fats, physical activity and drugs that stimulate the outflow. Water-soluble forms of this element or liposomal compounds, which are easier to digest, help to absorb vitamin D even in the absence of a gallbladder. But if, even with proper vitamin intake, the effect remains weak, it is worth looking for deeper causes.

Seryozhina drew attention to the fact that high doses of vitamin D are not always safe for overdose. But side effects with uncontrolled intake may include calcium deposition in blood vessels, kidneys and heart, provoking the development of atherosclerosis. Calcification of the valves of the heart valves, which is accompanied by heart failure, is especially dangerous.

In addition, the side effects of high doses of vitamin D are reduced when combined with vitamin K. These two nutrients work in synergy — they promote the formation of bone tissue, activate the protein osteocalcin, regulate blood clotting and protect blood vessels from calcification.

"The main forms of vitamin K are K₁ (phylloquinone) and k₂ (menaquinone). K₁ enters the body with green vegetables such as lettuce, spinach and parsley. K₂ is found in animal products such as eggs, dairy products, liver, and fermented foods such as natto soybeans, sauerkraut, and kimchi. In a healthy person, part of vitamin K is synthesized by the intestinal microflora itself," the doctor explained.

Vitamin K deficiency is relatively rare, but it is possible with a violation of the microbiota, prolonged use of antibiotics and cytostatics, diseases of the gastrointestinal tract with malabsorption, after surgery and in the elderly. Its deficiency can be manifested by bleeding gums, nosebleeds, bruises and heavy menstruation.

If the microflora is disrupted or vitamin K is not absorbed from foods, the doctor may recommend taking supplements, the specialist added.

"Regular monitoring of these indicators helps to choose the optimal doses of vitamins D and K, avoid side effects and achieve the main thing — full absorption of vitamin D, protection of bones, blood vessels and metabolic processes and protect against autumn-winter depression," concluded Seryozhina.

In July, endocrinologist Olga Yatsishina named the most effective way to make up for iodine deficiency. According to her, iodized salt will help make up for iodine deficiency in the body. She urged not to take iodine supplements on their own.

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