FAQ
View our frequently asked questions below.
Frequently asked questions about our vitamin D testing program, supplements, and the science behind them. Can't find your answer? Contact us at the bottom of this page.
About ImmunoCeutica
Who is ImmunoCeutica?
Canadian immunoceutical company founded on four pillars: research, education, service, and products. Founded by scientists at the University of Guelph including Professor, Dr. Bonnie Mallard and Dr. Niel Karrow. Work spans vitamin D research, immune system research, health education, point-of-care and at-home testing, a line of Health Canada licensed supplements, and more.
Are your products made in Canada?
Products are formulated and tested in Canada. Vitamin D testing is performed in our Ontario laboratory.
Vitamin D Science
Why should I take Vitamin D?
Vitamin D is essential for immune function, bone health, and overall wellness. It influences immune system regulation and plays a role in calcium absorption and bone mineralization. Many Canadians have insufficient levels, particularly through winter when sun exposure is limited.
How does vitamin D support the immune system?
Vitamin D plays roles in both innate and adaptive immunity, helping regulate immune cell function and supporting the body's natural defenses. Vitamin D receptors are found on cells of the immune system.
What are optimal vitamin D levels?
A concentration in the blood stream of 40 ng/mL (100 nmol/L) is considered sufficient for strong bones and teeth. However, recent scientific literature suggests higher values are required to optimize immunity (Tao et al 2022).
Why can't I just get vitamin D from the sun?
Several factors limit sun-based production in Canada: limited UVB from November to March, latitude, time spent indoors, sunscreen use, skin pigmentation, genetics, and age.
Is there a difference between vitamin D2 and D3?
D3 (cholecalciferol) is more effective at raising and maintaining blood levels than D2 (ergocalciferol). All ImmunoCeutica products contain D3, the form your skin produces.
How is vitamin D3 actually manufactured?
Produced through controlled processes using ultraviolet light — the same reaction that produces vitamin D in skin. D2 is made from ergosterol in yeast and fungi. D3 is most commonly made from 7-dehydrocholesterol extracted from lanolin, the waxy substance from sheep's wool. The sheep aren't harmed; lanolin is a shearing byproduct. Vegan D3 from algae is an increasingly available alternative.
Is there scientific evidence supporting your products?
All products are formulated based on peer-reviewed research. Our Science & Research page features published studies. Drs. Karrow, Mallard and team have published extensively on vitamin D, immunogenetics, and immunoceuticals.
The Vitamin D Testing Program
How does ImmunoCeutica's vitamin D testing program work?
Order a collection kit through our online store; it's mailed to your home or clinic. Once your order is confirmed you'll receive an intake questionnaire by email. Every collection card also carries a QR code to the same form. Collect a small blood sample at home using a finger prick, following the written instructions and video guide, then mail the card back in the return envelope. Our trained technician runs the analysis at our own lab. Results are combined with your questionnaire responses to generate a personalized report, including supplementation information, calculated using our proprietary algorithm.
What exactly does the test measure?
The concentration of 25-hydroxyvitamin D in your blood - the standard marker for vitamin D status. Your sample is collected as a dried blood spot on a specialized card, then extracted and analyzed by Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA), a validated method performed in-house.
How does your home test compare to standard laboratory testing?
Home test kits and standard laboratory tests measure the same thing, 25-hydroxyvitamin D in your blood. The difference is collection method and assay platform. The ICI home test uses a dried blood spot analyzed by ELISA, which uses an enzyme reaction producing a visible colour change. Most commercial labs draw venous blood and use CLIA or chemiluminescence immunoassay, which generates light. Both are established, validated immunoassay methods. Our kit suits people who want at-home collection, a specific number versus a range, results interpreted in terms of immune function, a fully personalized report, and the option to contribute to our Canadian vitamin D research study.
Does the test cover other nutrients like B12, vitamin A, or iron?
Not at this time - the current test measures vitamin D only. We are developing tests for additional markers including B12, selenium, vitamin A, and iron, and will announce these through our newsletter. For a broader panel, these can be ordered through a medical laboratory with a physician requisition.
Can I take part in your vitamin D research — and is it required?
Participation is entirely optional; you can decline and still receive your personalized results. Participants complete the same intake questionnaire and collection process, with the option to have their de-identified data contribute to ongoing research.
Do the test kits have an expiry date?
Yes. The collection cards carry a printed expiry date, and the current date is listed on the product page. We recommend collecting and returning your sample within a few weeks of receiving your kit.
Using Your Test Kit
What's included in the kit?
The kit ships directly from our Ontario lab and includes everything needed for a simple finger-prick collection - detailed instructions, lancet, sample collection paper, bandage, and a pre-addressed return envelope.
Does the finger prick hurt?
The kit uses a contact-activated lancet designed to minimize discomfort, and many people find it barely noticeable. If you'd rather not do it yourself, it's fine to ask someone to help.
My lancet didn't work. What went wrong?
This usually happens when the release button is pressed before the lancet is held firmly against the finger. Press flat against the fingertip first, then release. We do include 2 lancets, one as a spare. We're happy to mail additional lancets, or you can pick them up at any pharmacy. Review the written and video instructions before trying again.
Which finger should I use?
Middle or ring finger. Use the side of the fingertip rather than the centre, and warm your hands beforehand to encourage blood flow.
Why are there two spots on the card?
One spot is usually sufficient. The second is a backup in case the first doesn't yield a usable result.
Is the test suitable during pregnancy, or for children?
Yes to both. The kit uses a simple finger-prick sample, and there is nothing about the collection method that excludes pregnancy or childhood. The test is suitable for all ages. The lancet might be uncomfortable for some children, as the child would be required to stay still, which can be difficult for young children. Testing children would be done by the parent and entirely at the discretion of the parent, as they know their child best - if they can sit still and if they can handle the lancet prick and the blood collection process. Please share your results with your doctor before changing supplementation.
Vitamin D status is well studied in both groups. Adequate vitamin D is important during pregnancy for maternal and infant health, and it matters throughout childhood for bone development and immune function. Knowing your level - or your child's - is the starting point for any conversation about whether supplementation is appropriate.
Your Results and Retesting
How long does it take to get my results?
Once we receive your sample, results are typically available within 2–4 weeks, delivered by email.
What will my results tell me?
Your current vitamin D level, where it sits relative to reference ranges for optimal immune health, and a supplementation recommendation if one is needed.
Is this a one-time test, or should I retest?
It's a single test establishing your current status. If your results indicate you should adjust your intake, we recommend retesting after 12 weeks or 3 months to confirm your levels have moved into target range.
What is the "Test, Don't Guess" philosophy?
Rather than supplementing blindly, measure first, supplement based on individual need, then retest to confirm you've reached target. A targeted approach is more effective than one-size-fits-all supplementation.
How much vitamin D should I take?
Individual needs vary by current level, age, genetic background and health status. We recommend testing first to determine your appropriate intake.
Safety and Dosing
Can you get too much vitamin D?
Toxicity is possible, in principle, but requires consistently taking extremely high doses well beyond recommended amounts over an extended period. It's highly unlikely through regular supplementation, particularly in Canada where per-dose limits are regulated. The practical safeguard is to test periodically rather than guessing. In Canada, only a physician can prescribe high-dose vitamin D. If you experience adverse effects, discontinue use and consult your healthcare provider.
Is 250 mcg of vitamin K2 per day too much?
No known toxicity for K2 from food or supplements. Research suggests roughly 100–300 mcg of vitamin K2 per day for adults, with some studies pointing to 150–180 mcg. Ten drops of ImmunoDrops provides 5,000 IU of D3 and 250 mcg of K2, within that range.
I take a blood thinner. Can I take vitamin K2?
Speak with your physician before taking K2, particularly at higher doses. Vitamin K — K1 mostly, but even K2 can play a role in normal blood clotting and can interact with anticoagulant medication.
Can I take your products if I have a medical condition?
Consult your healthcare provider before starting any new supplement if you have medical conditions, or take medications.
Are your products allergen-free?
Check individual product labels. Vitamin D products are derived from lanolin (from sheep's wool). MycoGuard contains mushroom extracts. Review the full ingredient list or contact us for clarification.
Are vitamin D3 supplements made from rat poison?
No. This reverses the actual facts. D3 is an essential nutrient your body requires to regulate calcium and phosphorus. Some rodenticides do use synthetic cholecalciferol - at doses hundreds of times higher than any supplement. A single rodent bait block can contain roughly 600,000 IU; Health Canada limits supplements to 2,500 IU per capsule or drop. The substance isn't what makes a rodenticide lethal; the dose is.
SelNAC
What is SelNAC?
An antioxidant formulation combining highly bioavailable organic selenium with N-acetylcysteine (NAC).
What are the ingredients?
Each vegetable capsule contains selenium (from selenium-enriched yeast) 200 mcg and N-acetyl-L-cysteine 500 mg. There are 60 vegetable capsules per bottle. Non-GMO, Canadian-formulated.
What is NAC?
N-acetylcysteine directly replenishes glutathione, one of the body's primary antioxidants.
What is selenium and why is it important?
An essential trace mineral. In SelNAC it supports the function of glutathione peroxidases, the body's primary antioxidant enzymes that use glutathione as a substrate to deal with damaging reactive oxygen species. We use selenium-enriched yeast, which provides organic selenium that is better absorbed than inorganic forms.
Why combine selenium and NAC?
They work together - glutathione peroxidases are selenoproteins, meaning they require selenium to function, while NAC replenishes glutathione stores used by the glutathione peroxidases.
Why selenium-enriched yeast rather than other forms?
It provides organic selenium (primarily selenomethionine), which is better absorbed, more bioavailable, better retained, and has a wider margin between beneficial and excessive intake.
What's the recommended dosage?
One capsule daily, or as directed by your healthcare practitioner. Each bottle contains 60 capsules - a 60-day supply.
MycoGuard
What is MycoGuard?
Our mushroom immune support formula featuring five functional mushrooms in concentrated 25:1 extracts: Shiitake, Maitake, Reishi, Cordyceps, and Lion's Mane.
What's in MycoGuard?
Each vegetable capsule contains:
- Shiitake (Lentinula edodes – mycelia) 110 mg, 25:1, equivalent to 2,750 mg
- Maitake (Grifola frondosa – mycelia) 130 mg, 25:1, equivalent to 3,250 mg
- Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum – mycelia) 110 mg, 25:1, equivalent to 2,750 mg
- Cordyceps (Ophiocordyceps sinensis – mycelia) 50 mg, 25:1, equivalent to 1,250 mg
- Lion's Mane (Hericium erinaceus – stroma) 40 mg, 25:1, equivalent to 1,000 mg
What does "25:1 extract" mean?
25 kg of dried mushroom material is concentrated to produce 1 kg of extract. Each capsule delivers the equivalent of thousands of milligrams of whole mushroom per serving.
What are the benefits?
MycoGuard combines a custom blend of bioactive beta-glucans with both immunostimulatory and prebiotic properties, formulated to support the function of cells of the immune system and promote gut health.
How many capsules are in a bottle?
60 vegetable capsules.
What's the recommended dosage?
One capsule daily, or as directed by your healthcare practitioner. Each bottle contains 60 capsules - a 60-day supply.
Are there interactions with medications?
While generally well tolerated, some mushrooms may interact with certain medications, particularly immune-suppressing drugs or blood thinners. Consult your healthcare provider before starting.
ImmunoShield
What is ImmunoShield?
ImmunoShield™ is a daily capsule combining eight evidence-informed ingredients for immune and antioxidant support. It's formulated to support the function of cells of the immune system through every season. Each bottle contains 60 vegetable capsules - a 60-day supply at one capsule daily.
What's in ImmunoShield?
Each capsule contains:
- Quercetin (dihydrate) — 250 mg
- NAC (N-Acetyl-L-cysteine) — 150 mg
- European elderberry (Sambucus nigra L.), 100:1 extract - equivalent to 650 mg
- Pine bark extract (Pinus pinaster), 15:1 extract - equivalent to 150 mg
- Olive leaf (Olea europaea – leaf) — 25 mg
- Zinc (citrate) — 10 mg
- Copper (citrate) — 1 mg
- Vitamin D3, PineD3™ (cholecalciferol) -12.5 mcg / 500 IU
How do I take it?
Up to two capsules per day. A 60-capsule bottle lasts one to two months.
Why does ImmunoShield contain copper?
Copper and zinc are cofactors for numerous enzymes involved in oxidative defense, cellular energy, protein synthesis and normal immune functions. Zinc and copper compete for absorption, and sustained zinc intake without copper can affect copper status over time. Including both keeps the formula balanced for daily, year-round use.
ImmunoShield already has vitamin D. Do I still need ImmunoDrops?
ImmunoShield provides 500 IU of vitamin D3 per capsule as part of a broader immune formula. It isn't designed to correct a deficiency on its own. If your test results show you need more, ImmunoDrops D3 and K2, and/or ImmunoDrops Extra Strength lets you dose to your actual number in consultation with your healthcare provider.
Can I take ImmunoShield if I'm pregnant, breastfeeding, or on medication?
Consult your healthcare practitioner before use. This applies particularly if you take immunosuppressants, blood pressure medication, or are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Pets
Can I give vitamin D to my dog or cat?
Yes — we make a vitamin D product formulated specifically for pets, and that's what we recommend. It's Health Canada approved and dosed appropriately for animals rather than requiring you to adapt a human product. Follow the label dosing and speak with your veterinarian about your individual pet, particularly if they have existing conditions or take medication.
Orders and Shipping
How much does the Vitamin D Test Kit cost?
$89.99 plus $15.00 shipping and handling, taxes calculated at checkout by province. Shipping covers delivery of the kit and the prepaid return envelope - no additional cost to return your sample.
I made a mistake on my order. Can I change it?
Our system doesn't allow orders to be edited after placement, but we can cancel so you can resubmit. Contact customer support.
