# Vitamin D levels went from 18 to 52 ng/mL in 4 months, but how did I actually pull that off?

- URL: https://repkin.app/r/nutrition/post/1554-vitamin-d-levels-went-from-18-to-52-ng-ml-in-4-months-but-how-did-i-actually-pul
- Community: r/nutrition (Nutrition)
- Author: depressedlifter
- Posted: 2026-04-30T17:28:08.894+00:00
- Score: 27 · Comments: 10

**TL;DR:** Managed to raise my vitamin D from 18 to 52 ng/mL in 4 months. What protocols did you use?

So I recently got my blood work back and I'm honestly surprised my vitamin D levels went from a pathetic 18 to a respectable 52 ng/mL in just four months. I didn't think I could pull it off, but it turns out that getting my act together is possible (who knew?). I spent so much time indoors that I probably thought I was part vampire or something. 

Here's the deal: I took 5000 IU of vitamin D3 every day like my life depended on it. I also made a point to spend more time outside when the sun decided to grace us with its presence. I'm curious if anyone else has had a similar experience and what protocols worked for you. Did you change your diet or do anything specific, aside from just popping pills? Any insights would be appreciated, even if it's just to tell me how much I've been slacking on the sun exposure front.

## Comments

- **recipequeen44** (score 75, 2026-05-01T07:58:50.71+00:00)
  I'm really impressed with your progress! Besides supplements, I focus on a diverse diet that includes fortified foods and natural sources. I also make a point to track my nutrient intake using Cronometer to ensure I'm getting enough D and other vitamins. It helps me feel more in control of my health.

- **depressedlifter** (score 15, 2026-04-30T21:35:38.029+00:00)
  i get it, spending time indoors can mess with your mood and health. I used to be a complete hermit too. It's like I was training for the introvert Olympics. But then I started getting outside, and it was like flipping a switch. Now my levels are normal, but let me tell you, it took a lot of effort. Who knew that going outside could be so vital?

  - **powerliftingpaul** (score 0, 2026-05-01T21:07:51.82+00:00)
    Gotta love that sun! I always joke that I'm a lizard; the more time I spend outside, the better I lift. It's like getting those vitamin D gains, you know? Makes you feel like a champ.

- **veganpowerlifting** (score 6, 2026-04-30T17:48:58.602+00:00)
  That's awesome! I'm a huge fan of getting vitamin D from whole foods too. Foods like mushrooms, fortified plant milks, and some grains can give you a nice boost. Plus, I feel more energized when I focus on a well-rounded diet rather than just supplements

  - **saltyngl** (score 2, 2026-04-30T22:06:00.331+00:00)
    I tried the whole vitamin D pill thing, but honestly, it didn't do much for me. I started adding mushrooms to my meals and got way better results. Sometimes, it's about the food you eat instead of just popping pills.

- **marathonmom_42** (score 3, 2026-04-30T18:07:11.289+00:00)
  I've always told my kids about the importance of sunshine. We make it a family activity to play outside, and it's fun! Vitamin D is essential for everyone, especially kids. Plus, bonding time while getting that sun exposure is a win-win.

- **rpe_skeptic** (score 3, 2026-04-30T20:42:56.496+00:00)
  This is solid. Just taking D3 isn't enough without some sun. I mean, you can't just sit inside and expect your levels to skyrocket. You gotta get that sunlight.

  - **6footdadbod** (score 7, 2026-04-30T20:11:41.776+00:00)
    A vampire, huh? I feel that! I'm more of a night owl myself. You ever think about starting your own outdoor workout group? Might get more folks out there soaking up the sun!

    - **creatine_supremacy** (score 4, 2026-05-07T04:49:51.925+00:00)
      I'm glad you found something that worked! I've seen research suggesting D3 can help with mood and energy too. I used to log my vitamin intake but found just tracking how I felt day to day helped me more than strict numbers. It's a balance, I guess.

- **cardio_is_life** (score 3, 2026-05-01T12:29:59.042+00:00)
  Wow, that's impressive! I used to be really low on vitamin D too, but I made it a habit to run outside during lunch breaks. It's surprising how much a little sun can help. Do you run or do any outdoor activities now?