Triglyceride Update!! - Multiple Sclerosis Message Board

MSNik · 04-29-2008, 12:57 PM

hi there everyone (and Bearygood!) Some of you know that I was really upset to find out a year ago that my triglycerides were thru the roof, and wondered if it was my Rebif causing it. IT WASNT. Im still on Rebif, and have been having my Tri's checked every 3 months...they kept going up and up.

In January, I had gyn surgery- and at that time, went off the b/c pill. Interesting, as 4 weeks later, my Triglyercides were down about 40 points....but heres the amazing part. Exactly 3 months later- Im down to having triglycerides of only 97, which is actually in the normal range, and over 200 points lower than last time! It had to be the birth control which elevated it so much...

I also had my Vitamin D levels checked...they were high, at 140. Whats anyone's thoughts on this? My tech said it COULD be from tanning..that it elevates the levels. (I only tan 5 minutes, 3 times a week, but I was in Mexico 2 weeks before the blood was drawn) OR it could be from the Vitamin D3 that I take regularly...does anyone know if 140 is something to be concerned enough about to lower my D3 intake? Im taking about 3000 mgs a day.
Nikki

Nenu · 04-29-2008, 01:02 PM

Awesome news Nikki! As for Vitamin D levels, I'm not sure myself if there's any problem with them being too high... it was my understanding that the body just removes what isn't needed itself as far as vitamins go. If memory serves me correctly, I take 2000mg daily, but each person is different of course

MSNik · 04-29-2008, 02:03 PM

Nope. According to the lab report, 140 is considered HIGH and the notes say that it should be between 35-55. So, this isnt a vitamin that your body will get rid of naturally...
I do think that being in the sun and having tanned recently, prior to the test might have elevated it though. Im not overly worried...but input would be good.
Thanks!
Nikki

Bearygood · 04-29-2008, 07:34 PM

That's great, Nikki. From the research we both did, this makes perfect sense.

As for the D3, if you spent a lot of time in the sun, it's very possible. I've read consistently and posted here that if you're treating with D3, to reduce in the summer months or if you live in a sunny climate year round. There was a 1,000 IU reduction recommended. However, each of us is different and it's possible that you weren't low to begin with. I would reduce to 2,000 until you get blood work taken again.

Excess vitamin D is not expelled naturally. It can build up in the body and cause toxicity to the liver. This is why my endocrinologist tested both my D levels and liver function. I have to check my labs but even taking 3,000 IUs for months, I was well within normal range (and my liver function was fine).

Just beware in general -- too much of any vitamin is not necessarily non-problematic. It really depends what it is and you really have to research what you're taking.

taosdaphne · 04-29-2008, 08:01 PM

I'm on 50,000IU once a week--my D didn't show up at ALL on last bloodwork--something like a one. GP and MS guy not happy. So I'm on this huge dose, and I feel better. More energy,not as much hair falling out, and a dewy glow to nmy skin (wink!) Seriously, my skin is way better, even my legs, and out here in the land of perpetual sun that says something.

My partner was away this week and I did emotional eating--ice cream and a cinammon bun. Oh well--it ws only 1.5 days, and I REALLY wantd the ice cream--haven't had any in months. Sooooo good! Made up for it with salmon (wild caught) and avocado tonight. The sweetie comes home tomorrow. yay!

And great news on triglycerides--is there another BC med out there that doesn't have the same effect?