Vitamin D and Cortisol: Why Are Their Functions So Similar?

Dr. Berg’s Healthy Keto and Intermittent Fasting Podcast

Dec 28, 2023•12 min

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Episode description

Let’s talk about the interesting relationship between vitamin D and cortisol.

When you’re under chronic stress, vitamin D is less absorbed in your gut.

The building block for vitamin D is the same building block for cortisol. That building block is cholesterol. But, when you go through stress, your cholesterol is used to build more cortisol than vitamin D.

However, you need plenty of vitamin D when you go through stress. Many people aren’t getting the vitamin D they need. The more stress someone has, the more vitamin D they need.

In my opinion, the solution isn’t just increasing vitamin D but also cholesterol—making sure you have plenty of fat in your diet.

The best ways to balance vitamin D and cortisol:

1. Get more vitamin D

2. Get plenty of magnesium

3. Consume more zinc

4. Take adaptogens

5. Exercise

6. Get quality sleep

7. Consume sea salt

8. Get more sun

9. Consume vitamin B1

10. Take AHCC before bed