Vitamin D Deficiency

Vitamin D circulates in the blood at certain levels, and when these levels drop below the normal range, it results in vitamin D deficiency. This condition causes problems with bones and muscles and is very common worldwide. Recent statistics indicate that around one billion people suffer from vitamin D deficiency. Fortunately, it is generally easy to prevent or treat.

What Are the Symptoms of Vitamin D Deficiency?

Symptoms of vitamin D deficiency often go unnoticed, making it difficult for many people to realize they have low levels. When symptoms do appear, they may include:

• Frequent colds, flu, and other infections.
• Fatigue and general tiredness.
• Bone and back pain.
• Depression.
• Slow wound healing.
• Loss of bone density and osteoporosis.
• Hair loss.
• Muscle pain.
• Weight gain.
• Anxiety.

What Causes Vitamin D Deficiency?

Common causes of vitamin D deficiency include:

• Insufficient vitamin D intake through diet.
• Lack of adequate sun exposure.
• Frequent and consistent use of sunscreen.

Who Is Most at Risk of Vitamin D Deficiency?

Certain groups are more prone to developing vitamin D deficiency, including:

• Infants relying solely on breast milk, which typically lacks sufficient vitamin D. Doctors often recommend giving breastfeeding infants 400 IU of vitamin D daily.
• Older adults, because their skin becomes less efficient at producing vitamin D, and kidney function to activate the vitamin declines with age.
• People with darker skin tones, as increased pigmentation reduces the skin’s ability to produce vitamin D from sunlight.
• Individuals with digestive disorders that impair vitamin D absorption, such as Crohn’s disease, celiac disease, or ulcerative colitis.
• People with obesity, since vitamin D can become trapped in fat tissue, limiting its availability in the bloodstream.
• Those who have undergone gastric bypass surgery.
• Patients with chronic kidney or liver diseases.
• Individuals taking certain medications that affect vitamin D metabolism, including cholesterol drugs, anti-epileptics, and weight loss medications.

How Can You Confirm Vitamin D Deficiency?

If you experience any of the symptoms above, it’s important to consult a healthcare provider. They will likely order a blood test measuring 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) levels. A result below 12 nanograms per milliliter (ng/mL) typically indicates vitamin D deficiency.

How Is Vitamin D Deficiency Treated?

Treatment usually involves vitamin D supplements prescribed by a doctor, with dosages tailored to the severity of the deficiency. Additionally, increasing intake of vitamin D-rich foods is recommended, including:

• Fatty fish.
• Egg yolks.
• Fortified breakfast cereals.
• Milk and juices fortified with vitamin D.
• Yogurt.