‘Your body needs vitamin D so finding out what your levels are could be life changing for you’

Not all clinics test for vitamin D and in this episode Kay investigates the importance of this vitamin in fertility and a healthy pregnancy. Not everybody is aware of the role vitamin D plays and Kay explains how our bodies process Vitamin D and its importance for those trying to conceive, listen in now to find out more.

 

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• From late March to September most individuals are able to get the vitamin D they need from being outside in direct sunlight.
• From October to March a supplement can be necessary to ensure you have enough Vitamin D.
• The number of foods which are a source of vitamin D are limited but include oily fish, liver, red meat, egg yolks and fortified foods.

How much vitamin D do you actually need?

• Babies up to 1 year - 8.5 to 10 micrograms a day
• 1 year upwards and adults -  10 micrograms a day
• Infant formula is fortified so these babies do not require a supplement until the amount formula is decreased.
• It’s difficult for people to get enough vitamin D through the foods they eat during Autumn and Winter.
• Those who do not get any or enough exposure from sunlight should take a supplement daily throughout the year.
• Taking too much can lead to calcium build up, resulting in hypoglycaemia which can weaken the heart and bones.

How is vitamin D linked to fertility?

• Studies have shown that vitamin D levels can have an impact on fertility and healthy pregnancies.
• Some research indicates that those with normal vitamin D levels are 4 times more likely to conceive through IVF.
• Some clinics screen for vitamin D and if the level is low will follow protocol to bring up the level of vitamin D.
• Currently, the exact threshold level at which vitamin D has an impact on fertility is not known.
• There have been studies that have indicated taking a supplement throughout pregnancy is good for both the baby and the mother.
• Taking a vitamin D supplement is low risk, low cost and can have a positive effect on fertility and pregnancy.

 

BEST MOMENTS

‘We should always aim to have women vitamin D replete when entering any treatment cycle’

‘It’s important to understand what happens if you take too much over a long period of time’

‘A person’s vitamin D status can affect their fertility’

‘Some research has shown that vitamin D levels have an impact on fertility and healthy pregnancies’

 

VALUABLE RESOURCES

IVF Before and After Podcast

 

ABOUT THE HOST

IVF Before and After was founded by Kay Dempsey. She created IVF Before and After, after many years spent researching and practising every possible way to conceive with IVF. Kay has created a global community with the use of podcasts she will share the stepping stones to empower your mindset, fuel your body organically and support you along your fertility journey.

 

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