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Carlson Solar D Gems
Supplement Facts
Serving Size:  1 Soft Gel
Amount Per Serving
%DV
Calories 
5
 
Total Fat
0.5 g
1%**
Cholesterol 
<5mg
<2%
Vitamin A (from cod live oil and retinyl palmitate)
27 mcg RAE
3%
Vitamin D (as cholecalciferol) (from cod liver oil and cholecalciferol concentrate)
100 mcg (4,000 IU)
500%
Vitamin E (as d-alpha tocopherol)
0.67 mg
4%
Norwegian Cod Liver Oil 
500 mg
Total Omega-3 fatty Acids☆
115 mg
DHA (Docosahexaenoic Acid)☆
50 mg
EPA (Eicosapentaenoic Acid)☆
42 mg

The product is found useful for the following medical conditions

Common Cold details

SCIENTIFIC SCORE
Possibly Effective
Based on 8 Researches
7.9
USERS' SCORE
Good
Based on 3 Reviews
8.7
8
Vitamin D reduces cold severity
Influence of Vitamin D Supplementation by Simulated Sunlight or Oral D3 on Respiratory Infection during Military Training.
Most Relevant Research
We explored the connection between vitamin D levels and the frequency of upper respiratory tract infections (URTI) in physically active individuals throughout different seasons. In our research, we observed over 1,600 military recruits during their basic training, noting that only 21% were vitamin D sufficient during winter. Alarmingly, those who had sufficient vitamin D levels were found to be 40% less likely to experience URTIs compared to their deficient counterparts, suggesting that maintaining adequate vitamin D may be crucial for better respiratory health during demanding training periods.

Building on these findings, we conducted a follow-up study with 250 recruits, where we implemented various vitamin D supplementation strategies. Participants received either a placebo, simulated sunlight exposure, or oral vitamin D3 supplementation. The results were promising: vitamin D helped alleviate the severity of URTI symptoms and significantly reduced the number of days experiencing a cold. Notably, both sunlight and dietary supplementation were equally effective in boosting vitamin D levels and improving outcomes.

Overall, achieving vitamin D sufficiency can markedly reduce the burden of URTIs, particularly in physically demanding scenarios such as military training.
9.5
Effective immunity boost
Most Useful Review
I love that these capsules don't contain lanolin. I've been taking one daily for 15 years, and they have reversed my osteopenia and improved my immune system. Most years, I hardly catch the common cold, perhaps only once. They're essential, and Carlson sources these from the wild with no chemical processing.

Back Pain details

SCIENTIFIC SCORE
Possibly Effective
Based on 19 Researches
7.3
USERS' SCORE
Good
Based on 4 Reviews
8.6
9.5
Vitamin D aids back pain recovery
An Unusual Mimic of Axial Spondyloarthritis: A Case Report.
Most Relevant Research
We observed a fascinating case involving a male in his 40s who experienced persistent inflammatory back pain for three months. Despite having a negative test for HLA-B27, a marker often associated with axial spondyloarthritis, clinical assessments suggested possible underlying issues.

The clinical investigation led to an MRI, which confirmed bilateral symmetrical sacroiliitis. Interestingly, further tests showed he had very low vitamin D levels along with elevated parathyroid hormone—indicating a possible deficiency impacting his condition.

After starting treatment with vitamin D alongside nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), he experienced notable relief from his symptoms. His condition improved significantly, and follow-up tests indicated that his vitamin D levels had normalized.

This case demonstrates the potential benefits of vitamin D in managing back pain, especially when classical markers are inconclusive. It highlights how a thorough diagnosis can reveal interconnected health issues and improve treatment outcomes.
9.5
Increased energy levels
Most Useful Review
I'm very pleased! My doctor in Finland recommended this D3 supplement last year for my multiple sclerosis. Since taking one capsule daily, I have more energy and no longer feel tired. Remarkably, my back pain has eased, and I've avoided flu this past year! Previously, migraines required medication weekly, but now those have disappeared. I'm truly grateful for this product.

Cardiovascular Disease details

SCIENTIFIC SCORE
Possibly Effective
Based on 58 Researches
7.2
USERS' SCORE
Good
Based on 5 Reviews
8.6
9
Cod liver oil and heart health
Fish oil, atherogenesis, and thrombogenesis.
Most Relevant Research
We examined how cod liver oil might influence cardiovascular disease, particularly in relation to atherogenesis and thrombogenesis. Previous observations suggested that eating marine fish can lower the risk of ischemic heart disease. However, the universal recommendation for fish oil as a supplement remains uncertain due to potential side effects associated with high dosages.

Our research revealed that while fish oil lowers cholesterol and triglyceride levels, it can also increase levels of low-density lipoprotein, which raises concerns about free radical generation and bleeding. Interestingly, moderate intake of marine fish has shown protective effects against heart disease without significantly changing traditional measurements like cholesterol levels or blood clotting times.

In a controlled study with swine, we noted that adding cod liver oil to a high-fat diet resulted in fewer monocyte adhesions and platelet clumps in critical heart arteries, suggesting that it plays a role in reducing clotting risks. To delve deeper into the mechanisms, we conducted an in vitro experiment where we treated endothelial cells with varying fatty acids.

Among these, only eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) stood out in diminishing the binding of human monocytes to the endothelial cells, especially when applied within a specific timeframe after stimulation. Moreover, we found that EPA decreased the expression of certain adhesion molecules on endothelial cells following inflammatory stimulation.

Overall, our findings suggest that cod liver oil could be a potentially valuable addition to heart health strategies, particularly due to its unique ability to influence blood vessel interactions without significant adverse effects.
9.5
Strengthens immune system
Most Useful Review
The Vitamin Complex Solar D Gems from Carlson Labs includes vitamin D3, Omega-3 fatty acids, and vitamins A and E. The Omega-3s help my cardiovascular health, brain function, and cholesterol levels. I highly recommend this supplement for overall health as it boosts immunity and aids in managing cardiovascular disease.

Liver Disease details

SCIENTIFIC SCORE
Possibly Effective
Based on 49 Researches
7.8
USERS' SCORE
Good
Based on 2 Reviews
8.6
9
Vitamin D improves liver health
Effects of vitamin D supplementation on the glycaemic indices, lipid profile and liver function tests in patients with cirrhosis: a double-blind randomised controlled trial.
Most Relevant Research
We explored the effects of vitamin D supplementation in patients with liver cirrhosis—a progressive disease that often manifests alongside vitamin D deficiency. In a carefully designed study, we involved sixty patients who participated in a double-blind, randomized controlled trial. Each patient received either a weekly dose of 50,000 IU of vitamin D or a placebo over 12 weeks.

Throughout the study, we assessed key health markers before and after supplementation, including liver function tests, lipid profiles, and glycaemic indices such as fasting blood glucose and insulin resistance. By the end of the trial, our findings indicated that vitamin D supplementation significantly improved fasting blood glucose levels and insulin resistance in the participants.

Specifically, we observed noteworthy increases in serum 25-hydroxy-vitamin D levels and reductions in fasting blood glucose and insulin resistance indicators. These results suggest that vitamin D might be an important player in improving metabolic health for those suffering from liver cirrhosis.
9.5
Improved strength
Most Useful Review
Excellent. My wife has advanced liver disease, but the products I ordered from iherb.com, recommended by Dr Antti Heikkilä, have greatly improved her condition and strength. She now believes she may have more time to live. In November 2010, her oncologist predicted she had just two months left. Thanks to Dr Heikkilä's advice, we have found hope and support through these products. Thank you, iherb.com, and a heartfelt thanks to Dr Heikkilä for extending her time with us.

Multiple Sclerosis details

SCIENTIFIC SCORE
Possibly Effective
Based on 51 Researches
7
USERS' SCORE
Good
Based on 3 Reviews
8.6
8
Eicosapentaenoic acid reduces MS symptoms
Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) induces peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors and ameliorates experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis.
Most Relevant Research
We explored the therapeutic effects of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) in tackling multiple sclerosis through a study involving mice with experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE). The mice were given diets enriched with or without EPA. Remarkably, the mice that received the EPA-infused diet displayed significantly lower clinical scores compared to those that did not.

Furthermore, we observed that the production of inflammatory markers like IFN-γ and IL-17 was notably reduced in the EPA-treated mice. This reduction is particularly important, as these markers are associated with the progression of multiple sclerosis. Additionally, there was an enhancement in the expression levels of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors within the CD4T cells infiltrating the central nervous system.

These findings suggest that EPA could serve as a promising new approach to therapy for multiple sclerosis, showcasing its potential in reducing inflammation and improving clinical outcomes in those affected by this condition.
9.5
Increased energy levels
Most Useful Review
I’m very pleased! My doctor in Finland recommended this product a year ago for my multiple sclerosis. Since then, I've taken one capsule daily, and I feel full of energy, no longer tired as I used to be. Remarkably, my pain has eased and I haven’t had flu all year! My migraines have also vanished; previously, I consumed medication every week. I’m truly satisfied and grateful for this change!

Bone Pain details

SCIENTIFIC SCORE
Moderately Effective
Based on 3 Researches
8.7
USERS' SCORE
Good
Based on 3 Reviews
8.5
9
Vitamin D3 correction improves pain
Role of Pre-operative Correction of Vitamin D3 Deficiency in Controlling Post-operative Bone Pain after Unicompartmental Knee Arthroplasty.
Most Relevant Research
We explored the impact of vitamin D3 levels on bone pain that patients experience after undergoing unicompartmental knee arthroplasty (UKA). The study involved 240 participants who were divided into three groups based on their vitamin D status—some received treatment before surgery, some after, and others had normal levels to begin with.

By administering vitamin D3 in three doses, we aimed to see if correcting deficiencies could alleviate post-operative bone pain. Throughout the recovery period, we measured pain levels using the visual analog scale at various intervals after the surgery.

Our findings clearly demonstrated that patients who corrected their vitamin D3 deficiency before surgery reported significantly better pain control after the operation compared to those who were treated afterwards or those who started with adequate levels. This highlights the importance of testing and addressing vitamin D status prior to orthopedic procedures, showing that it is a modifiable risk factor affecting recovery.
9.5
Energy boost
Most Useful Review
I'm very pleased! My doctor in Finland suggested this product a year ago for my multiple sclerosis. Taking one capsule daily has energised me; I no longer feel tired and my pain has subsided. Remarkably, I haven't had flu symptoms this year, and my migraines which previously required medication every week are gone. This product has really changed my life; I am immensely satisfied. Thank you!

Heart Disease details

SCIENTIFIC SCORE
Possibly Effective
Based on 57 Researches
7.3
USERS' SCORE
Good
Based on 2 Reviews
8.5
9
Cod liver oil slows coronary disease
Inhibition of atherosclerosis by cod-liver oil in a hyperlipidemic swine model.
Most Relevant Research
We investigated how cod liver oil affects coronary artery disease in pigs on a high-fat diet over eight months. By comparing 7 pigs that received cod liver oil to 11 control pigs, we observed significantly less disease in the oil-fed group. Notably, lesion size and arterial narrowing were reduced, suggesting that cod liver oil may influence heart health. Both groups had high lipid levels, but the differences in atherosclerosis weren't linked to these levels. This study hints at the oil's potential to slow coronary disease progression via changes in metabolism.
8.8
Quick recovery
Most Useful Review
I love this vitamin D3, which is in the correct adult dose combined with Omega-3s. My family and I took it, and whenever we got sick, we recovered quickly, thanks to this supplement. I ordered this nearly a year ago and have a few pieces left. I store it in the fridge! It's a great product from a reliable company, and I recommend it wholeheartedly!

Knee Pain details

SCIENTIFIC SCORE
Possibly Effective
Based on 31 Researches
7
USERS' SCORE
Good
Based on 2 Reviews
8.5
8
Vitamin D3 shows promise for knee OA
The influence of vitamin D supplementation on the expression of mediators of inflammation in knee osteoarthritis.
Most Relevant Research
We explored the potential benefits of vitamin D3 supplementation in alleviating knee pain associated with osteoarthritis (OA). In this open-label clinical trial, we assessed the effects of daily doses of 4000 IU vitamin D3 over three months in 80 patients suffering from knee OA.

Our findings revealed notable improvements in pain levels and overall physical function. The patients showed significant reductions in pain scores measured by the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) and the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) subscores after the treatment period. Remarkably, 86.7% of those treated responded positively to the therapy.

Interestingly, we observed changes in systemic cytokine levels: while some pro-inflammatory markers increased, others, including TNF-α and IL-17, showed significant reductions. This suggests that vitamin D3 not only helps with pain relief but also may influence inflammatory processes in the body.

Overall, our results indicate that vitamin D3 supplementation could be a promising therapeutic option for managing symptoms of knee OA. Nonetheless, future research should further investigate the role of specific inflammatory mediators, like IL-33, in the progression of knee osteoarthritis.
8.8
Reduced knee pain
Most Useful Review
My husband's rheumatologist suggested Carlson Vitamin D several years ago. He asked if I had arthritis, which I do, and recommended I try it too. I have noticed a difference in my knee pain and have shared this vitamin with friends.

Autoimmune Disorder details

SCIENTIFIC SCORE
Possibly Effective
Based on 54 Researches
7.6
USERS' SCORE
Good
Based on 3 Reviews
8.4
9
Cod liver oil aids rheumatoid arthritis
Effect of cod liver oil on symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis.
Most Relevant Research
In a recent study involving 43 patients suffering from rheumatoid arthritis, we explored the impact of taking 1 gram of cod liver oil daily for three months. The results were striking. We observed notable reductions in morning stiffness by an impressive 52.4%, alongside decreases in both painful and swollen joints, each showing a 40% improvement. Pain intensity also saw a significant drop of 67.5%.

Additionally, the feedback from the patients was overwhelmingly positive. Approximately 68% reported that the treatment was effective, while a remarkable 95% praised its tolerability. However, it’s worth noting that 11 patients did experience some nonsevere adverse effects, but only three of those were possibly related to the cod liver oil itself.

Overall, it seems that cod liver oil can indeed offer relief for those grappling with rheumatoid arthritis, making it a treatment worth considering for improving symptoms of this autoimmune disorder.
10
Improved health
Most Useful Review
Excellent. My wife, diagnosed with liver cancer, has experienced significant improvements since we began using products from iherb.com, recommended by our doctor Antti Heikkilä. She feels stronger, can walk a bit, and has regained hope for more years. Initially, an oncologist gave her two months to live in November 2010 due to her severe condition. Thanks to Dr Heikkilä’s advice, she now believes there might be a chance for more time. Thank you, iherb.com and Antti Heikkilä, for your assistance!
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