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Vitamin D is not found naturally in many foods, but it is essential to healthy bones and a properly functioning immune system, among other things. Ritual offers personalized vitamins for a range of health needs. People who experience symptoms of vitamin D deficiency or receive test results indicating they may be deficient in vitamin D can consider talking with a doctor for treatment advice.
Plus, the service offers follow-up guidance from a team of nurses to help you determine the appropriate next steps. While it isn’t cheap, the LetsGetChecked Micronutrient Test is one of the few at-home tests that’s designed to test your levels of multiple nutrients. The products listed below have all passed our vetting process and been approved by Healthline’s team of medical experts.
Pros and cons of at-home vitamins deficiency tests
You can determine whether you need to take vitamin D supplements to support your intake. There is also a simple testing process that first involves activating your kit on the app or website. After you collect your sample and mail it off, you may have your results back in as little as two to five days after the lab receives it. Anyone who thinks they may have an imbalance in vitamin or mineral levels should consider speaking with a healthcare professional. If a person receives treatment from a doctor, they may wish to conduct the test again after their treatment ends to see how their vitamin levels have changed. The home test involves a finger-prick blood sample collection that an individual will send to a lab the same day.
Vitamin D test results will be straightforward and indicate a person’s vitamin D level based on a given range. However, a person can consider discussing their results with a doctor if they have questions about their test results. In some cases, a person may receive a free consultation with a doctor to discuss their results. If a person’s test indicates they may have a vitamin D deficiency, myLAB Box suggests they share their test results with a doctor to get further advice.
Vitamin D At-Home Test Kits
This order counts as one free test included in your membership. Your order will be processed immediately and shipped to your address on file. Vitamin D deficiency can cause aching bones and weak muscles, so it is vital you obtain optimal amounts to benefit these areas of your body. Support your health, and avoid deficiency, with pill-free supplements designed to encourage optimal intake.
If any of these chemical levels are not correct in your blood, you need to see a doctor immediately. The EverlyWell Vitamin D Test measures your blood levels of vitamin D and has excellent reviews. EverlyWell is a widely known home health testing company that offers clear instructions for its simple sample collection process. LetsGetChecked is a well-known and reputable home testing service offering a range of home health tests—from hormone and nutrition tests to STI screens. Their Mineral Test measures your magnesium, copper, selenium, and zinc levels.
Test kit contents
The pack includes clear and full instructions with a postage-paid envelope to post your results to the lab. Collect and return your sample using the instructions and materials provided in your kit. Buy the test online (preferably directly from the company’s website). Rochelle Collins, DO, is a board-certified family medicine doctor currently practicing in Bloomfield, Connecticut. The best vitamin brands are transparent about testing and quality control practices.
Vitamin D exists in the body in several different forms, one of which is 25D—or vitamin D3. Vitamin D3 tests measure the D3 form of vitamin D because this is generally the best way to determine the body’s vitamin D status. Register your test online at /register using the unique kit ID that’s included in your kit. Your results will contain your personal level of vitamin D and whether it is low, normal, or high as compared to someone who shares a similar demographic profile as you (age, gender, etc.). Your test results will show your vitamin D level and whether it is suboptimal, adequate, or elevated.
When to see a doctor
However, you can also purchase their blood test alone if you’re curious about your nutrient levels. The test measures vitamin B6, vitamin B12, folate, and vitamin D. They are also easy to use, with good reviews from previous customers and results that are returned to you promptly. The accuracy depends on the company, the sample collection, and various procedures. If the company has designed its devices in line with medical guidelines and people take their samples correctly, the test results may be accurate.
A healthcare professional can also recommend any at-home testing options and advise you on your results and treatment for a vitamin D deficiency. If a person has a vitamin D test at a doctor’s office, the doctor will take a small blood sample from their arm using a needle. If a person takes a test at home, they will take a blood sample using a finger prick test.
Vitamin D is an important micronutrient because it plays a large role in bone and immune system health. Many people with vitamin D deficiency don’t experience any symptoms. So, testing your vitamin D levels may help provide information about your health. If you have a vitamin D deficiency, regular testing may help you and your healthcare professional determine whether your treatment plan is working or if it should be adjusted. The report includes your current 25-OH D level and provides actionable steps to maintain a healthy vitamin D level. You can also schedule a free call with a nutritionist to talk about a plan and any questions you have.
Some people may be at a higher risk of developing a vitamin D deficiency. Although the article states that most people with a vitamin D deficiency will not experience symptoms, some people do. The company offers a subscription service for $80.10 for those who wish to take the test every six months. Everlywell also allows buyers to pay through their FSA and HSA.
There are virtually no side effects with vitamin D because it is a natural hormone. The Institute of Medicine recommends an upper limit of 4000 IU of vitamin D per day. In cases where there is vitamin D toxicity, calcium levels may be too high but this is extremely rare.
After collecting it, mail the sample back to the lab and you’ll be notified when your results are ready. With a 3-month subscription, the test costs roughly $89—however, as a standalone test, it’s about $99 and shipping is free. Note that FSA/HSA funds can’t be used to pay for the test, and it’s not available in New York. Verywell Health content is rigorously reviewed by a team of qualified and experienced fact checkers. Fact checkers review articles for factual accuracy, relevance, and timeliness.
One time purchase
In addition to being among the most budget-friendly options on our list, Everlywell is one of the more well-known at-home health and wellness testing services. They offer a large number of at-home blood tests and have overall very positive reviews. By comparison, 1,25-dihydroxy vitamin D has a half-life of just a few hours. Its levels may not decrease with vitamin D deficiency or change in a way that is clear until vitamin D deficiency is severe. Keep reading to learn about four of the best at-home vitamin D tests. They can help you find fast, easy, and accurate answers to whether your vitamin D is in the recommended range.
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