NOW Vitamin D-3 boosts my energy, fights fatigue affordably when taken correctly with morning calcium.

2025-09-07 Vitamin Reviews Categroy：Vitamin D Views：38

As a longtime NOW user with adrenal fatigue, their affordable Vitamin D-3 is essential. Taking 5000 IU correctly—with morning calcium—dramatically boosted my energy and adrenal efficiency, sunshine or not.

This is a review of product:

Now Foods Now Foods High Potency Vitamin D-3, 10,000 IU, 120 Softgels, 2 Pack

From Amazon.com

My NOW Vitamin D-3 Relief Journey

I have been purchasing the 5,000 u. per capsule of NOW Vitamin D for a while and I dislike having to swallow any pills - just not a pill-person unless is absolutely necessary. I have Chronic Adrenal Fatigue so I have to supplement my Vit. D (especially in the months when I am unable to get out in the sunshine) so my adrenals will produce more efficiently. I have noticed an improvement by following the advice of several other customers who said to take it in the morning plus I found out that it needs to be taken with food/liquid containing calcium. NOW Brand has been a very reliable and affordable supplement supplier over the 30+ years I have purchased them. I highly recommend this Brand and this product.

Vitamin Basics & Tips

Understanding Vitamin D, Adrenal Function, and Supplementation

The reviewer mentions key points related to Vitamin D and health:

Chronic Adrenal Fatigue

While not a universally accepted medical diagnosis, "adrenal fatigue" describes symptoms like persistent tiredness, body aches, nervousness, sleep disturbances, and digestive problems, often linked to prolonged stress. The adrenal glands produce cortisol (the "stress hormone") and aldosterone. Chronic stress can potentially dysregulate the HPA axis (Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal axis), impacting hormone production. Vitamin D receptors are present in the adrenal glands, and adequate Vitamin D is thought to support healthy adrenal function and cortisol regulation. Low Vitamin D levels are frequently associated with fatigue.

Vitamin D and Sunshine

Vitamin D is unique; our primary source isn't food, but sunlight. When UVB rays from sunlight hit our skin, a cholesterol derivative is converted into Vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol). The reviewer highlights the challenge during months with limited sun exposure (winter, staying indoors), making supplementation crucial. Factors like skin pigmentation, latitude, sunscreen use, age, and time of day significantly impact natural Vitamin D synthesis.

Vitamin D with Calcium for Absorption

The reviewer correctly notes the importance of taking Vitamin D with calcium-containing food or liquid. Vitamin D is fat-soluble, meaning dietary fat aids its absorption. Crucially, Vitamin D's primary role is to regulate calcium (and phosphorus) levels in the blood. It promotes calcium absorption from the intestines. Taking Vitamin D alongside calcium ensures the body has both nutrients available simultaneously for optimal utilization, especially for bone health. While Vitamin D itself doesn't *require* calcium to be absorbed, its core function relies on calcium being present. Taking it with a meal containing fat and calcium is ideal.

Vitamin D Supplement Forms and Dosing

The reviewer uses Vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol), the same form produced by the skin and generally considered more effective at raising and maintaining blood levels than D2 (ergocalciferol). The dose mentioned (5000 IU) is a common maintenance dose for adults, especially those with deficiency, limited sun exposure, or specific health conditions. Dosage should ideally be guided by blood tests (measuring 25-hydroxyvitamin D). Vitamin D is crucial for bone health, immune function, muscle function, and cell growth regulation.

Timing of Supplementation (Morning)

While Vitamin D doesn't have a strict "best" time, some people (like the reviewer) prefer taking it in the morning. Since Vitamin D can potentially influence energy levels and sleep patterns (though research is mixed), taking it earlier might align better with natural circadian rhythms for some individuals. Consistency in taking it with a meal (for fat/calcium) is more critical than the specific time of day.

Importance of Brand Reliability

The reviewer emphasizes trust in the NOW brand over decades. Choosing supplements from reputable brands that adhere to Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) is vital for ensuring product purity, accurate labeling, and potency. Long-standing positive user experiences add to perceived reliability.