Peter Attia's Personalized Approach to Vitamin D
Unlike many who follow a one-size-fits-all approach to supplementation, longevity physician Peter Attia, M.D., emphasizes a data-driven, personalized strategy for vitamin D intake. His philosophy, which he calls "Medicine 3.0," focuses on extending not only lifespan but also healthspan—the period of life spent in good health. For vitamin D, this means using bloodwork to guide both supplementation and brand choice, rather than relying on generic recommendations. His goal is to maintain a serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D level between 40 and 60 ng/mL, a range he considers optimal based on current research.
Attia's protocol includes several key steps:
- Baseline testing: He recommends getting a blood test to establish your current vitamin D levels before beginning any supplementation.
- Targeted supplementation: Based on the test results, he suggests an appropriate approach. He has stated his personal intake of vitamin D3 is tailored to his specific needs and tracked over time.
- Follow-up testing: Regular re-testing helps monitor progress and confirm that the supplementation is having the desired effect, allowing for adjustments.
What Brand of Vitamin D Does Peter Attia Use?
In various podcasts and interviews, Peter Attia has mentioned that he uses and favors high-quality supplements and has pointed to specific brands he trusts. For vitamin D, the brands he has liked and cited include Thorne and Jarrow Formulas. Both companies are known for their reputation for product quality and commitment to using specific, effective formulations. He acknowledges that many high-quality options exist, but these are brands he personally has experience with and trusts.
It's important to remember that Attia is not necessarily endorsing a specific product for everyone. Instead, he highlights the importance of choosing reputable brands and focusing on quality, just as he does with other supplements like magnesium (where he specifies the Magtein formulation for brain benefits).
The Synergy of Vitamin D3 and K2
Beyond simply taking vitamin D3, Attia has also discussed the importance of combining it with vitamin K2. This pairing is based on the synergistic relationship between the two vitamins. Vitamin D3 helps the body absorb calcium, while vitamin K2 is crucial for directing that calcium to where it is needed most—the bones—instead of allowing it to accumulate in the arteries. This combined approach is a more comprehensive way to support both bone and cardiovascular health. Some reputable brands offer combined D3/K2 products, while others sell them separately.
A Broader Approach to Nutrition
Attia's focus on supplements like vitamin D is always part of a much larger picture. He consistently stresses that supplements are meant to complement, not replace, fundamental pillars of health, including proper nutrition, exercise, and sleep. His nutritional recommendations often prioritize protein intake and stable glucose metabolism. When it comes to sourcing micronutrients, a healthy, varied diet rich in whole foods is always the primary goal. Supplements, for Attia, are a strategic tool to fill specific gaps identified through testing.
Comparison of Supplement Options Mentioned by Peter Attia
| Feature | Thorne Vitamin D3 | Jarrow Formulas Vitamin D3 | Combination D3/K2 (from reputable brand) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Availability | Widely available from various retailers and direct | Widely available from various retailers and direct | Varies by brand and formulation |
| Combination with K2? | Sold separately (requires purchasing another product) | Sold separately (requires purchasing another product) | Often available in a single capsule or liquid form |
| Key Benefit | High-quality source for vitamin D intake | Another trusted option for vitamin D intake | Synergistic effect, aids in proper calcium utilization |
| Absorption/Effectiveness | High-quality formulations designed for effective absorption | High-quality formulations designed for effective absorption | Optimized for mineral metabolism, potentially reducing arterial calcification risk |
| Attia's Rationale | A trusted, quality brand for his personalized approach | Another reliable brand for his specific needs | Addresses a broader aspect of bone and cardiovascular health |
The “Why” Behind the Protocol
Understanding the rationale behind Attia’s choices is more important than simply copying his stack. He approaches each supplement from a risk-benefit perspective, considering whether the potential upside outweighs the downsides. In the case of vitamin D, he sees the risk as “insanely low” and the potential reward as moderate to high, especially for those with low levels. However, he strongly advises against excessive intake without first testing blood levels, as this can be harmful. By focusing on regular testing, optimal ranges, and high-quality supplements from brands like Thorne and Jarrow Formulas, Attia exemplifies a disciplined, evidence-based approach to nutritional health that goes far beyond a simple "what brand of vitamin D does Peter Attia use?" query. The emphasis remains on informed decisions and data-driven adjustments for long-term health and well-being. For further information on his broader health philosophy, explore his resources at his website, peterattiamd.com.
