OstroVit Vitamin D3 4000 IU 120 softgels

OstroVit Vitamin D3 4000 IU is a high-dose vitamin D3 supplement: each softgel provides 100 µg, i.e. 4000 IU, of cholecalciferol. The pack contains 120 softgels and one softgel is one serving, so with regular use it lasts about four months. The manufacturer has designed the product primarily for adults over 75 and for people with an increased requirement for vitamin D3. It is made by the Polish manufacturer OstroVit, which states that its products are regularly tested by an independent accredited laboratory. The manufacturer also publishes the independent laboratory’s microbiological and heavy-metal test results on its website, so the quality can be checked by anyone.

Vitamin D3 is a fat-soluble vitamin, so its absorption depends on fat in the diet. That is why the softgel contains sunflower oil as a fat source to support the absorption of cholecalciferol. The small gelatine softgel is easy to swallow and suits those who dislike large tablets – no powders to mix and no drops to count.

Key benefits

• 4000 IU per softgel – a high dose for those whose requirement is above average.
• With a fat source – sunflower oil supports the absorption of the fat-soluble vitamin.
• Simple dosing – one softgel a day with a meal.
• Economical pack – 120 servings, about four months of regular use.
• Laboratory-tested quality – according to the manufacturer, the product is regularly tested by an independent accredited laboratory.

Who is it for

The product is intended for adults who need a higher-than-usual amount of vitamin D3 – according to the manufacturer, primarily those over 75. The requirement may also be increased in people who spend little time in the sun, work indoors all day or rarely eat oily sea fish. During the dark winter months there is too little sunlight for the skin to produce vitamin D, which is why a supplement is a daily companion for many. Since 4000 IU is a high dose, the manufacturer recommends a 25-(OH)D blood test and consulting a doctor or pharmacist before use, so that the dose matches your actual needs. As vitamin D3 is fat-soluble, the softgel is best taken with a meal – exactly as the manufacturer recommends.

Vitamin D3, or cholecalciferol

Vitamin D3, or cholecalciferol, is an organic steroid compound belonging to the group of fat-soluble vitamins. The body obtains it from food such as oily sea fish and also produces it in the skin under sunlight. Vitamin D3 is stored mainly in adipose tissue and the liver, so a regular, steady intake matters more than occasional large amounts.

Vitamin D contributes to the maintenance of normal bones and teeth and to normal muscle function and the normal function of the immune system. It also contributes to the normal absorption and utilisation of calcium and phosphorus and to normal blood calcium levels. Vitamin D also has a role in the process of cell division. One softgel provides 2000% of the adult daily reference intake, which is why the product is meant for deliberate, purposeful use rather than casual use.