When taking vitamin D, be sure to also take some vitamin A
Vitamin D recommendations: beyond deficiency.
Ann Nutr Metab. 2011;59(1):10-6. doi: 10.1159/000332066. Epub 2011 Nov 25.
Biesalski HK. biesal@uni-hohenheim.de
Department of Biological Chemistry and Nutrition, Food Security Center, University of Hohenheim, Stuttgart, Germany.
Vitamin D plays an important role in regular bone growth and in adequate function of the innate immune system, including barrier functions of mucous membranes. A sufficient supply during pregnancy and lactation protects the child from infectious diseases. Clinical symptoms of severe vitamin D deficiency (rickets) are well known and can be easily detected. Signs and symptoms beyond deficiency, however, remain to be elucidated. Based on clinical and observational data, the plasma level of 25(OH)D may serve as a 'marker' to detect or define a subclinical deficiency. Levels below 50 nmol/l might be insufficient to maintain the non-bone-related activities of vitamin D.
Finally, it has to be considered that all of the nonbone activities of vitamin D are in concert with vitamin A (9-cis retinoic acid).
Studies combining both vitamins in sufficient amounts (cod liver oil) demonstrated a beneficial effect on the prevention of respiratory tract infections.
Consequently, it should be strongly recommended to increase the intake of vitamin D and to ensure a daily intake of vitamin A as counseled.
Copyright © 2011 S. Karger AG, Basel.
PMID: 22123631
See also VitaminDWiki
- Masterjohn on relationships between Vitamin A D and K – Dec 2010 which has the following graph
Price and Masterjohn on Vitamin A Vitamin D and Vitamin K – 2010
Response by Masterjohn on vitamin A thwarting vitamin D – Mar 2010
Vitamin A may thwart the ability of vitamin D to reduce risk of osteoporosis – June 2010
Low cost co-factors for vitamin D has the following chart Feb 2012
| Co-factor | How Much | Benefit Bone | Bioavailability | Balance body | Notes |
| Calcium | <750mg | Yes | probably | Yes | Avoid getting too much |
| Magnesium | 500mg | Yes | Yes | Yes | Very important, big range in bio-availability |
| Vitamin K2 | Yes | maybe | ? | ||
| Vitamin A | maybe | ? | need some, but too much is bad | ||
| Boron | 5-10mg | Yes | 25% | ? | |
| Silica | Yes | no | ? | ||
| Strontium | Yes | no | ? | rarely available in a co-factor pill | |
| Zinc | Yes | maybe | ? |