Vitamin D has an essential role in your body. When exposed to sunlight, your body can produce crucial vitamins. However, there are some cases where the body doesn’t get enough vitamin D.
What Is Vitamin D?
Vitamin D is a nutrient in food and supplements and is obtained through sun exposure. It helps control the functions of our cells and organs. It also protects our bodies from infections like COVID-19 and significant diseases such as cancer and diabetes.
Vitamin D Deficiency
Vitamin D deficiency is prevalent, especially in people over the age of 65. While many people obtain sufficient vitamin D through sunlight and food, some people find it difficult to absorb. The selection of food that provides vitamin D is minimal, leaving them with skin synthesis as their only source.
In areas with long winters where people tend to wear heavy clothes, the hours of sun exposure won’t be enough. People with higher melanin or darker skin tones may have issues absorbing adequate vitamin D.
What Are the Signs of Vitamin D Deficiency?
The most common sign of vitamin D deficiency can be easily confused with exhaustion due to a busy lifestyle. However, other symptoms include hair loss, muscle weakness, and depression. Severe vitamin D deficiency may exhibit more painful and worrying signs, such as getting sick more easily. In those cases, vitamin D supplements are recommended.
Before Taking Vitamin D
Vitamin D is fat-soluble and absorbed better when paired with high-fat foods. One of the risks of taking too much is that it could lead to vitamin D toxicity which may cause bone pain and kidney problems.
Taking Vitamin D: Benefits
Researchers suggest vitamin D plays an essential role in many vital bodily functions. Vitamin D may support the immune system while helping maintain adequate calcium and phosphorus levels.
If you present vitamin D deficiency symptoms, consult your doctor, who can determine whether a supplement intake is required.
