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What can be done to improve vitamin D levels?

This Premium Q&A, reviewed and published, features a real conversation between an iCliniq user and a physician.

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

I am taking Neomercazole 5 mg and Propranolol 5 mg daily for hyperthyroidism. But now my new blood test shows that my vitamin D3 is only 17 ng/mL, and my Hb is 16.3 g/dL. What should I do? My blood pressure is 120/90 mmHg. I am taking Propranolol 10 mg once daily and Neomercazole 5 mg once daily.

Please suggest.

Answered by Dr. Saumya Mittal

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Saumya Mittal is a Family Physician specializing in Diabetology and Internal Medicine with 20 years of clinical experience. He completed his MBBS at the Maharashtra University of Health Sciences, CC in Diabetes Mellitus at Medvarsity Online Limited, MD in General Medicine at the Himalayan Institute Hospital Trust, and Diploma in Vitamin D deficiency and treatment at the Boston University School of Medicine. He is experienced in treating patients suffering from various diabetic issues. Currently, he is practicing in Dr. Mittal's Mediclinic, Noida, Uttar Pradesh, India.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

It is good that you are keeping track of your health and staying on top of your blood tests. Here is a general idea of what could help.

Vitamin D Deficiency (17 ng/mL):

Your vitamin D levels are lower than the recommended range, usually 30 to 50 ng/mL. So, supplementation is typically needed. You should consult your doctor about the right dose of Vitamin D3, but it is common to start with 1,000 to 2,000 IU daily or higher (60,000 IU per week) if your doctor recommends it. Foods like fatty fish, fortified dairy, and egg yolks can also help boost vitamin D.

Hemoglobin (16.3 g/dL):

Your hemoglobin is within a normal range (typically 12 to 17 g/dL for adults), so it does not indicate any immediate concern. However, it is always good to keep monitoring, especially if you are feeling fatigued or lightheaded.

Blood Pressure (120/90 mmHg):

Your blood pressure is slightly elevated, as 120/80 mmHg is considered optimal. The 90 mmHg diastolic reading is in the "elevated" range, so it is important to monitor it. Your current medication, Propranolol, helps reduce blood pressure, but it is a good idea to track it regularly. If it stays high, you may need to adjust the dosage or add another blood pressure medication.

Given your medication for hyperthyroidism (Neo-Mercazole), it is essential to stay in regular contact with your healthcare provider, as both hyperthyroidism treatment and vitamin D levels can interact with other health aspects. Please consult your doctor or a healthcare professional about these changes to get personalized advice and treatment prior to medication.

I hope this helps.

Thank you and take care.

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

Thank you for your reply. Is there a possible way that my vitamin D3 can be increased naturally through sunlight exposure and diet without medicines or supplements?

Answered by Dr. Saumya Mittal

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Saumya Mittal is a Family Physician specializing in Diabetology and Internal Medicine with 20 years of clinical experience. He completed his MBBS at the Maharashtra University of Health Sciences, CC in Diabetes Mellitus at Medvarsity Online Limited, MD in General Medicine at the Himalayan Institute Hospital Trust, and Diploma in Vitamin D deficiency and treatment at the Boston University School of Medicine. He is experienced in treating patients suffering from various diabetic issues. Currently, he is practicing in Dr. Mittal's Mediclinic, Noida, Uttar Pradesh, India.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Hello,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

Yes, it is possible to increase your vitamin D levels naturally through sunlight exposure and diet. Here are a few ways you can do that:

1. Sunlight exposure: Vitamin D is produced when your skin absorbs ultraviolet B (UVB) rays from the sun. Try to spend around 10 to 30 minutes outside several times a week, depending on your skin type and where you live. The more direct sunlight, the better.

2. Time of day: Sun exposure is most effective between 10 AM and 3 PM when UVB rays are stronger. Try to aim for daily sunlight exposure during this time.

3. Skin type: People with darker skin may need more time in the sun to produce vitamin D compared to those with lighter skin.

4. Dietary sources: You can also increase vitamin D intake through foods that are rich in it, such as:

  1. Fatty Fish: Salmon, mackerel, and sardines are excellent sources of vitamin D.

  2. Egg Yolks: Vitamin D is found in the yolk, so be sure to include them in your diet.

  3. Fortified foods: Many dairy products, plant-based milk (like almond or soy milk), and orange juice are fortified with vitamin D.

  4. Mushrooms: Some varieties, especially when exposed to UV light, can provide vitamin D.

  5. Liver: Beef liver is another food source high in vitamin D.

If you are aiming to increase vitamin D naturally, a combination of sun exposure and a vitamin D-rich diet can help. It is also important to note that people with certain conditions, or those who live in regions with limited sunlight, may need additional attention to their vitamin D levels.

I hope this helps.

Thank you and take care.

Medically reviewed by Dr. K. Shobana
Published At April 1, 2025
Reviewed At April 7, 2025

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Saumya Mittal is a Family Physician specializing in Diabetology and Internal Medicine with 20 years of clinical experience. He completed his MBBS at the Maharashtra University of Health Sciences, CC in Diabetes Mellitus at Medvarsity Online Limited, MD in General Medicine at the Himalayan Institute Hospital Trust, and Diploma in Vitamin D deficiency and treatment at the Boston University School of Medicine. He is experienced in treating patients suffering from various diabetic issues. Currently, he is practicing in Dr. Mittal's Mediclinic, Noida, Uttar Pradesh, India.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Education:

BDS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Shobana. K is a Dental Surgeon with seven years of clinical experience. She completed her BDS from CSI College of Dental Sciences and Research, Madurai. Currently, she is working as a Medical Data Moderator in iCliniq, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, India.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Saumya Mittal is a Family Physician specializing in Diabetology and Internal Medicine with 20 years of clinical experience. He completed his MBBS at the Maharashtra University of Health Sciences, CC in Diabetes Mellitus at Medvarsity Online Limited, MD in General Medicine at the Himalayan Institute Hospital Trust, and Diploma in Vitamin D deficiency and treatment at the Boston University School of Medicine. He is experienced in treating patients suffering from various diabetic issues. Currently, he is practicing in Dr. Mittal's Mediclinic, Noida, Uttar Pradesh, India.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

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