Vitamin D: Signs That You Need It

Dr.Vikram Singh, 3 mins read

Vitamin D, also known as the sunshine vitamin, plays an important role in maintaining bone and muscle health. It also aids in improving mental health and sleep. But with the changing lifestyle and eating habits, Vitamin D deficiency has become a common problem. As per a report, around 490 million people in India are Vitamin D deficient, of which 31% are children and adolescents.

Unlike some other diseases, many people don’t experience Vitamin D deficiency symptoms initially. But with time, the problem eats up the health silently. Keeping that in mind, it’s important to know the signs that your body needs Vitamin D.

Symptoms and Signs 

• Fatigue
• Loss of appetite
• Trouble sleeping
• Hair loss
• Pale skin
• Depression
• Bone loss
• Weight gain
• Bone, muscle and back pain
• Frequent infection of illness

If you experience the above symptoms, it’s time to consult a doctor. They may advise you for a blood test to check for the Vitamin D level in your body.

Who is at risk?

People with the following conditions are more vulnerable to Vitamin D deficiency:

• Obesity
• Not getting enough Vitamin D from food or sunlight
• Unable to absorb Vitamin D efficiently
• Dark skin
• Kidney or liver disease
• Cystic fibrosis, Crohn's disease and celiac disease

Complications

The most serious problems that can arise due to Vitamin D deficiency are:

• Rickets
• Low blood calcium (hypocalcemia)
• Osteomalacia (softening of the bones)
• Low blood phosphate (hypophosphatemia)

Treatment & Prevention

Doctors usually recommend taking enough Vitamin D. The recommended daily allowance of Vitamin D is 400 IU (International Units) for children above one year and 600 IU for adults. You can fulfil this need by simply incorporating Vitamin-D-rich food, like fatty fish, egg yolks, cheese, mushrooms, orange juice and fortified milk in your diet plan. You can also go for supplements. 

Also, make time daily to get out in the sun. This way, you will allow your body to synthesise Vitamin D in your body naturally.

Takeaway!

Vitamin D deficiency is a serious condition, but it is still overlooked by many, which results in many complications. Experts advise regularly taking the recommended dosage of Vitamin D. Also, it is recommended to always watch out for symptoms and signs of Vitamin D deficiency. If you see anything usual, contact your healthcare provider. 

Also, Read: 8 Regular Health Checks You Should Get in Your 40s