Vitamin D is essential for proper bone density, mineral metabolism, and tissue health and development. It is a fat-soluble nutrient that helps the body with proper calcium absorption that is essential for a variety of physical and mental health benefits. It is an essential vitamin nutrient for successful weight loss, the prevention of osteoporosis and bone fractures, and the reduction of seasonal depression and anxiety. Those who are deficient in Vitamin D may find that supplements help aid in their overall health and well-being.
Risks of Vitamin D Deficiency
Optimal physical and mental health relies on appropriate levels of vitamins and minerals in the blood system. A deficiency in Vitamin D is associated with an increased risk of the following conditions:
• Autoimmune disease
• Cardiovascular disease
• Kidney disease
• Diabetes
• Bone fractures
• Some types of cancer
• Fatigue and exhaustion with little activity
• Bone and joint pain
The development of these conditions can lead to further health complications, a reliance on frequent and ongoing medications, and increased medical expenses. Secondary health conditions may develop as a result of an initial health development, further diminishing a person’s overall health and well-being.
Benefits of Vitamin D Supplements
Vitamin D is naturally produced in the skin with direct exposure to sunlight and is derived from common foods like fish and eggs. Oral supplements can also be taken; however, some are lower quality with higher levels of additives. Additionally, research studies have found that when taken orally, even the highest quality supplement may see much of the Vitamin D nutritional value is lost in the body’s absorption process. Sometimes referred to as the Sunshine Shot, Vitamin D intramuscular injections are administered in the muscle, slowly releasing into the blood stream and allowing the body to absorb the full nutritional value.
A blood test can confirm an elevated level of Vitamin D in the body within one to three weeks of the initial shot and the body is typically able to maintain an elevated level of Vitamin D for several months after just one shot. While not all health issues may be cured with just one shot, most people typically feel relief within a few weeks from some ailments like joint discomfort and experience a noticeable improvement. Other issues take time to see improvement. The ability to fully absorb the nutrients and maintain higher Vitamin D levels for several months has made intramuscular injections increasingly popular.
Ideal Candidates for Vitamin D Injections
Those with a deficiency in Vitamin D despite consuming a balanced diet and getting sufficient sunlight often have poor intestinal absorption that is not caused by another health-related issue. This prevents their body from getting the full benefit of nutrients ingested orally meaning oral supplements are often unsuccessful in increasing and maintaining normal levels of Vitamin D. An intramuscular injection allows the nutrients to flow from the muscle directly into the blood stream, bypassing the intestine and avoiding the body’s inability to properly absorb nutrients.
The Process of Getting a Vitamin D Injection
Before a Vitamin D injection can be administered, a lab test must confirm a nutrient deficiency and assess the severity of that deficiency. While one shot can result in notable improvements within weeks and lasting for several months, those with a severe deficiency may receive a series of two to four shots administered over the course of a year and spaced three to six months apart.
After the first injection a blood test should be ordered to evaluate the Vitamin D level in the body. If determined necessary, a healthcare professional can outline a plan for subsequent injections with careful oversight through blood tests of Vitamin D levels in the body. Once an appropriate Vitamin D level is achieved, one to two shots per year are often all that is needed to maintain a healthy nutrient level. It is important for blood tests to guide the necessity of injections and the frequency of administration as excess amounts of Vitamin D can be toxic.
Learn More
If you are in the Hoover, Alabama, area and want more information about Vitamin D intramuscular injections and their potential benefits, schedule an appointment with our professional staff to learn more and see if Vitamin D can help you. Call us today at 205-352-9141.