Contributed by: Healthians Team
Introduction
Vitamin D, also known as the sunshine vitamin is an extremely crucial nutrient for the healthy functioning of our body. It plays a significant role in keeping our bones healthy and reducing anxiety.
Sufficient levels of vitamin D help in maintaining the levels of calcium and phosphorus in the body. Additionally, studies suggest that it boosts overall immune functions, fighting away various infections and diseases and also facilitates the normal growth and development of cells and bones. Other than these essential benefits, Vitamin D also helps to reduce inflammation caused by infections or injury.
We frequently tend to ignore the advantages that vitamins and minerals have for our bodies. We only become aware of it when our bodies go through a significant transformation or when we feel particular kinds of pain and discomfort.
The skin produces vitamin D in reaction to sunshine naturally. Additionally, various foods and supplements high in vitamin D can be used to obtain it.
The best and most natural way to raise your body’s levels of vitamin D is through exposure to sunlight.
Despite the fact that vitamin D has a wide range of advantages, a vitamin D deficiency can lead to a number of health complications.
A vitamin D deficiency may not show symptoms for months or even years, making it challenging to diagnose.
The signs could be very subtle, almost undetectable. There’s a high possibility you may even miss it. You could occasionally show no symptoms at all.
Even so, it’s still useful to be aware of the below warning signs and symptoms
You feel exhausted
People with vitamin D deficiencies frequently report feeling weak and generally exhausted, which makes it difficult for them to carry out their regular tasks.
Muscle weakness can impact the quality of life and make it difficult to get up from the floor or a low chair. It can also make a person waddle, which is to say take sloppy, short steps when walking.
You fall sick very often
You may experience frequent illnesses if you don’t get enough vitamin D. This vitamin supports a strong immune system.
It has an impact on the cells that defend against infections. You should once check your vitamin D levels if you frequently have the flu or the cold.
You feel depressed
Low vitamin D levels can also cause depression. Your mood is impacted by vitamin D as well. Low energy levels might cause depression-related symptoms to manifest. Studies have also revealed that vitamin D supplementation can aid in the reduction of depressive symptoms.
You experience hair fall
A lack of vitamin D can also play a role in the development and severity of hair loss. You should have your vitamin D levels tested if you are still experiencing hair loss despite using every available product and remedy. Numerous studies have also demonstrated a link between vitamin D and hair loss.
You have various skin problems
Vitamin D deficiencies can also lead to a variety of skin issues. Rashes, acne, and ageing of the skin are a few typical skin problems.
You can fight these skin conditions by eating more foods high in vitamin D or getting adequate sun exposure.
You have bone and back aches
Lower back and bone discomfort are two signs of insufficient vitamin D levels. Vitamin D is instrumental in supporting bone health and lower vitamin D levels have been associated with chronic generalised pain, rheumatoid arthritis, and muscle pain.
You have impaired wound healing
If your wound takes longer than usual to heal after surgery or damage, it may be an indication that your vitamin D levels are too low.
The ability of vitamin D to manage infections and reduce inflammation may be crucial for effective healing.
Findings from a test-tube study suggest that vitamin D boosts the creation of substances essential for the development of new skin throughout the wound-healing process.
Final thoughts
A blood test can be used to identify vitamin D insufficiency. The most accurate test that can determine whether you are deficient is the 25(OH)D or 25-hydroxyvitamin D.
Regardless of whether you’re experiencing the above symptoms, if vitamin D deficiency is suspected, it is crucial to see a doctor confirm the diagnosis so that treatment can start right once and any issues caused by the deficiency can be resolved.
