Vitamin D

The Lowdown on Vitamin D

Vitamin D is a steroid precursor. A deficiency plays a role in at least seventeen types of cancer, especially breast, prostate, and colon, as well as depression, and arthritis.


Vitamin D is synthesized in the skin but the trend to avoid the sun and the use of sunscreens limits the vitamin D an individual will actually produce. 


Ironically, melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer, is believed by some experts to be caused by sunlight/vitamin D and omega 3 deficiencies.


Other conditions associated with a lack of Vitamin D:


  • Obesity
  • Diabetes
  • Osteoporosis
  • Hypertension
  • Heart Disease
  • Autoimmune disorders
  • Seasonal Affective Disorder
  • Cold and flu


The upper limit for vitamin D in Canada is 4,000 IU for adults but some people need more initially.  We suggest healthy adults take 4,000 IU in the winter and 1,000 IU in the summer
with time spent outside sans sunscreen!  People with existing health conditions should have their levels checked. The optimum range is 100-250 nanomoles/ml. 


“Because vitamin D is so cheap and so clearly reduces all-cause mortality, I can say this with great certainty: Vitamin D represents the single most cost effective medical intervention in the United States”. 

- Dr Greg Plotnikoff, Medical Director, Abbot Northwestern Hospital, Minneapolis        

         

Health Canada Upper Limits For Vitamin D

  • Infants 0 – 6 months - 1,000 IU daily
  • Infants 7 – 12 months - 1,500 IU daily – this dosage can be achieved by alternating 1,000 and 2,000 every 2nd day
  • Children 1-3 - 2,500 IU daily – this dosage can be achieved by alternating 2,000 and 3,000 every 2nd day
  • Children 4-8 - 3,000 IU daily
  • Children and adults 9-70 - 4,000 IU daily



Anyone who suffers from inflammation or chronic disease should have their levels checked.  Some people may require
much higher levels for several months before reaching optimum levels. 

Note:  The upper limit for our southern neighbours is 5,000 IU though they live in a sunnier clime than we Canadians!



*Revised February 2023



Jo Anne's Place Staff

We have been supporting the wellness of our communities since 1976.


Our highly trained staff are here to help. Our Product Educators have vast knowledge and experience with the products we carry in our stores - whether they take them themselves, have taken brand training, or have received feedback from customers. 


Please visit one of our stores to chat with them about we can help support you and get you feeling your best!

Store Hours
By Jonathan Tessier April 9, 2026
Peptides are short chains of 2 to 50 amino acids that act like messengers telling your body what to do. Some are effective, some are not. Let's get into all of it!
3 Pictures, on the left are sugar cookies, in the middle are cupcakes and on the right is a quiche
By April Allen March 31, 2026
Happy Easter! Looking to switch it up and try some new recipes this year? Here is a roundup of Easter
By April Allen March 25, 2026
Small Changes with a Big Impact. April is Earth Month! With Earth Day coming up on April 22nd, we wanted to share some simple ways to make your home more eco-friendly. Of course, sustainability is top of mind this time of year - but our hope is that the awareness around sustainability and habits created during Earth Month will be continued on throughout the year. Not only do sustainable habits benefit the Earth and the ecosystems we inhabit, but they also improve our lives by reducing waste and toxins in our homes and communities, saving us money, and supporting a more circular economy. Below are some small changes you can make to your daily routines that result in a more eco-friendly home:
By Jonathan Tessier March 5, 2026
For almost every junk food, there’s usually a healthier alternative. You might have to compromise on taste but its definitely worth it for health in the long run!
Jo Anne and Margo sit outside with their arms around each other
By April Allen March 3, 2026
Who run the world? Girls! March is Women's History Month, and March 8th is International Women’s Day. What better time than this to lift up the women around us!
Title: Top benefits of Fiber: Digestion, Weight Loss and Heart Health
By Jonathan Tessier February 26, 2026
From improving your gut microbiome to reducing cholesterol and supporting weight loss, fiber plays a crucial role in your overall health. How Fiber Improves the Gut
Rebecca holding green smoothie in a glass cup with a straw
By April Allen February 26, 2026
Celebrate the luck of the Irish with these festive, healthier St. Patrick's Day recipes! We've added some brand new recipes to the list for 2025 - Slainte!
Title: The Truth About GMO's. 
The graphic shows a strand of wheat and an ear of corn brought together by DNA
By Jonathan Tessier February 5, 2026
You've probably heard about GMO's, but do you know what they actually are? They sound scary, but it's actually really easy to understand once you break it down.
By Jonathan Tessier February 4, 2026
Find out what's going on for Valentine's Day in Peterborough and Lindsay! From singles events to dances for established couples, there's something for everyone
By April Allen January 28, 2026
When it comes to our health, it’s often the small, consistent habits we practice each day that have the greatest impact on our long-term health. While genetics play a role, lifestyle choices around nutrition, movement, stress management, and supplementation can significantly support cardiovascular wellness. Here are some simple, everyday habits to help keep your heart strong and resilient: *These suggestions are not intended to replace appropriate professional advice. Please check labels for contraindications and check with your pharmacist if you are on prescription drugs. These suggestions are based on over 40 years of customer experience at Jo Anne’s Place.