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:
- Fatigue
- Changes in sleep patterns
- Weight gain
- Loss of appetite
- Pale skin and dark circles
- Mood changes
- Weak bones and muscles
- Hair loss
- Increased susceptibility to infections
- Digestive issues
- Slow wound healing after an injury
- Risk of breast cancer
- Lower back pain
- 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:
- It inhibits cancer cell growth.
- It can help alleviate inflammation.
- It improves muscle and bone health.
- Vitamin D is beneficial for teeth and gums.
- 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.
Leave a comment