Vitamin D Blood Test Add-On - Genova Test Kit

What is the purpose of this test?

Order this Vitamin D Blood Test Add-On - Genova Test Kit to measure the vitamin D level in the blood. Maintaining normal calcium and phosphorus absorption levels is critical for healthy bones and teeth; this vitamin plays a vital role in that process. Additionally, it supports the proper functioning of the immune system, muscles, and nerves. If vitamin D levels are low, it can result in bone disorders and other medical problems.

Vitamin D can be obtained through dietary intake or produced naturally in the body as a hormone when exposed to direct sunlight. Therefore, the total Vitamin D in the body is made of 2 forms:

• Vitamin D2 (ergocalciferol) - D2 is primarily produced in plants such as yeast and mushrooms. It is also available in supplement form and can be found in fortified foods.
• Vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol) - D3 is found in animal products and can be produced in the skin when exposed to sunlight. It's also available in supplements and added to foods like milk, juices, bread, and cereals.

Sometimes, vitamin D2 and D3 are prescribed to people with a vitamin D deficiency or related disorders like rickets, hypoparathyroidism, hypophosphatemia, or osteomalacia. However, it's important to note that having too much vitamin D, also known as vitamin D toxicity, can be just as harmful as not having enough. Vitamin D toxicity can be caused by too many vitamin D supplements or exposure to too much sunlight. Too much vitamin D can harm the kidneys and cause high calcium levels in the blood, which is called hypercalcemia. 

Individuals should note that this test is only offered as an add-on for the following Genova Diagnostics test kits:

• NutrEval® FMV (GD3000)
• NutrEval® Plasma (GD3001)
• Hormonal Health™ (GD4000)

Don't hesitate to contact Walk-In Lab's Customer Service at 1-800-539-6119 if you are interested in this add-on test, as additional charges will be applied. 

When should I order a Vitamin D Blood Add-On - Genova Test Kit?

Individuals may order this test if they have experienced signs or symptoms of a vitamin D deficiency, such as:

• Bone or joint pain
• Muscle weakness or aches
• Soft, deformed, or broken bones
• Low bone density (osteoporosis or osteopenia)

Individuals may also order this test if they have an increased risk of developing a vitamin D deficiency, such as:

• Age over 65
• Obese or overweight
• History of weight loss surgery
• Osteoporosis
• Limited sun exposure, sunscreen use, or 
• Dark skin pigmentation
• A condition that causes malabsorption of nutrients from foods (celiac disease and Crohn's disease)
• Kidney and liver disease
• Use certain medications