Research Show The fact that 1 billion people around the world have vitamin D deficiency is a major health impact. From bone pain to medical conditions, low vitamin D is a problem that tends to be as quickly as possible. Good news? There are a few simple ways to reduce these levels. Below, the best advice for experts to break down everything you need to know about vitamin D and get enough vitamin D
Why is Vitamin D good for your body?
Vitamin D, AS Jenna SterngrandMS, RD, Registered Dietitians and Performance Advisors Important,Description, it is a hormone that our bodies can synthesize from ultraviolet rays. Stangrand says our bodies have many features and many benefits. Optimal vitamin D levels are essential for overall health.
“It regulates cell growth and gene expression (essential for cancer prevention), improves cell differentiation, and is involved in immunity, fertility, muscle strength, hormonal balance, sexual health, energy, mood, and more,” he adds. Rhian Stephensonnutritionist, naturopathic doctor and founder Alta. Simply put, it is essential for all-purpose health and happiness.
What happens if you’re deficient in vitamin D?
Vitamin D deficiency affects both physical and mental health. If vitamin D is low, Stangland explains that calcium and phosphorus absorption into the bones is reduced, which means there is a risk of bone fractures.
Low levels are also associated with lower immunity and increased risk of serious health conditions such as cancer. “Vitamin D has been shown to play a role in preventing and treating cancer,” she explains. “[It] It inhibits cell proliferation in cancer tissues and downregulates certain cells involved in cancer inflammatory signaling. Other poor outcomes include autoimmune status, Covid-19, hormonal health, and neuropathy such as mood disorders, Stephenson, diabetes, chronic kidney disease, liver disease, fibromyalgia, and multiple sclerosis.
Vegan dieters and those with celiac, Crohn’s disease, and cystic fibrosis are especially at risk of vitamin D deficiency. Others at risk are breastfed babies, elderly people, babies with dark skin tones, and those who are above the standard body mass index (BMI). According to National Institutes of Health (NIH)breast milk vitamin D levels are lower than required and are also dependent on the mother’s vitamin D levels. In older people and darker skin, NIH explains whether the skin struggles to synthesize vitamin D as it ages, or whether it has melanin in the epidermis layer to reduce the skin’s ability. People who may be dealing with excess fat don’t necessarily have problems absorbing vitamin D, but NIH says they need it well.
What are the symptoms of vitamin D deficiency?
The only way to truly know if you’re deficient in vitamin D is to have a blood test through your GP. However, there are also signs and symptoms that you can be aware of.
Fatigue
If you are suffering from severe vitamin D deficiency, one of the most common symptoms is chronic, deep, or irreversible fatigue. Plus, lack of sleep is another symptom.
Bone and muscle pain
Several studies have shown a correlation between vitamin D deficiency and frequent muscle pain and weakness. On the other hand, vitamin D is essential for absorbing calcium, so bone and joint pain is common. Therefore, vitamin D is important for bone health.
Hair removal
Optimal growth is essential for healthy hair. Deficiency intervenes in the life cycle of the hair follicle, which can cause hair loss and slow growth. Alopecia is also thought to be linked to vitamin D deficiency.
You are often sick
Vitamin D deficiency is associated with weak immune systems. If you are often sick and don’t know why, consider getting a blood test.
Depression, anxiety, mood disorders
Scientific research shows that vitamin D may play an important role in balancing moods and minimizing the risk of depression. Low levels can contribute to seasonal affective disorder and are often associated with overwhelmed emotions, sadness, anxiety, forgetfulness, and sadness.
How do you get vitamin D?
It is well known that exposure to sunlight is the easiest way to stimulate the production of vitamin D in the body. As such, they are particularly vulnerable to a few months of dark winter shortage. “The NHS recommends supplementing vitamin D3 throughout the fall and winter months for this reason,” explains Stephenson. Stangland recommends exposure to sunlight for at least 20 minutes to keep your vitamin D levels healthy. (Be sure to wear sunscreen to protect your skin from sunscreen and to prevent skin cancer.)
