What are the Symptoms of Low Vitamin D?

Individuals must prioritize regular health check-ups to remain vigilant about their health conditions. Vitamin D is crucial for our bodies, impacting healthy bones, the immune system, depression, and other chronic diseases. Inadequate vitamin D consumption can have adverse effects on our health.

Symptoms of Vitamin D Deficiency

Vitamin D deficiency symptoms can sometimes go unnoticed, and individuals may appear fine, but the inner workings of their bodies may tell a different story. Therefore, it's necessary to have your vitamin D levels checked to initiate treatment before it's too late. Here are 14 vitamin D deficiency symptoms individuals should be aware of:

1. Fatigue
2. Changes in sleep patterns
3. Weight gain
4. Loss of appetite
5. Pale skin and dark circles
6. Mood changes
7. Weak bones and muscles
8. Hair loss
9. Increased susceptibility to infections
10. Digestive issues
11. Slow wound healing after an injury
12. Risk of breast cancer
13. Lower back pain
14. High blood pressure

Sources of Vitamin D

One can obtain vitamin D from three main sources:

Sunlight

The natural way to increase vitamin D levels is by spending at least 20 minutes in the morning sunlight, which facilitates vitamin D synthesis in the body.

Foods

Some vitamin D-rich foods include 

• fish (e.g., tuna or salmon)
• dairy products (fortified milk, cereals, yogurt, oatmeal, and cheese)
• eggs
• white mushrooms
• fish/beef liver oils
• oranges

Supplements

When vitamin D isn't adequately obtained from food or sunlight, health professionals may prescribe supplements.

Vitamin D Benefits

One significant benefit of vitamin D is its role in facilitating calcium absorption in the body. In addition to this, here are some key benefits of vitamin D:

1. It inhibits cancer cell growth.
2. It can help alleviate inflammation.
3. It improves muscle and bone health.
4. Vitamin D is beneficial for teeth and gums.
5. It enhances hair and skin health.

Daily requirements of Vitamin D according to age and gender

Infant -12 months

10 MCG or 400IU 

1 year to 70 years of age

15 MCG or 600IU

Above 70 years of age

20 MCG or 800IU

Pregnant and breastfeeding ladies

15 MCG or 600IU

*MCG stands for Micrograms & IU stands for International Unit

Conclusion

Maintaining a balanced lifestyle and adjusting vitamin D intake according to age, gender, and body type is essential. Failure to do so can lead to various physical and mental health issues.

Also, it is important to consume vitamin D according to your daily limits don't exceed the daily limit otherwise it can lead to skin cancers.

It's essential to discuss any queries regarding vitamin D deficiency and supplementation in your body with a healthcare professional for complete guidance so that you may not get misled.

FAQ's

Q1) How is vitamin D deficiency diagnosed?

Ans) Blood test measuring the levels of 25-hydroxyvitamin D is typically used to diagnose deficiency.