Upwards of one billion people worldwide have a vitamin D deficiency. Even those who practice eating a relatively healthy diet can experience dangerously low vitamin D levels. Throughout history we’ve received the bulk of our Vitamin D from the sun. In today’s environment we are told to reduce sunlight exposure to avoid skin cancer and when we are in the sun we’re instructed to use spf sun block which also blocks Vitamin D from being synthesized in our body. The result is a Vitamin D crisis.
In order to prevent Vitamin D deficiency it is important to know the signs and symptoms. Recognizing these symptoms can help us to protect both ourselves and our loved ones, including infants, against the debilitating effects of this widespread problem.
EXCESSIVE SWEATING
A sweaty forehead in an infant may be the first noticeable sign of Vitamin D deficiency. Same thing for adults. A sweaty forehead is especially concerning if you are in a temperature stable environment and your activity level is below that which would precede sweating.
BROKEN BONES
Your body stops building bone mass somewhere around the age of 30. Vitamin D deficiency can actually speed up osteoporosis symptoms. Seeing as it’s nearly impossible to satisfy Vitamin D needs through diet alone, everyone must strongly consider utilizing sun exposure and supplements to ensure they are meeting their D needs.
NOTICEABLE WEAKNESS
Feeling overly exhausted despite getting enough rest can be a sign of Vitamin D deficiency. D helps you maintain power and physical prowess through every stage of your life. Researchers have even linked vitamin D with increased muscle control. So if you’re feeling a sense of overall weakness and tiredness despite leading a lifestyle that should seemingly prevent such sensations, you should seriously consider having your Vitamin D levels checked.
POOR MOOD
Many depression diagnoses have been linked with Vitamin D deficiency. While scientists still haven't settled on a causal effect between D deficiency and depression, it is believed that the mineral may work in the same brain areas as those that affect mood. It’s not surprising that a Vitamin D deficiency would have such an impact on overall mood as it plays such a significant role throughout our body.
CHRONIC PAIN
A subtle but chronic pain syndrome known as osteomalacia can often be misdiagnosed as arthritis or fibromyalgia. The cause of this is actually a lack of Vitamin D in the joints and muscles. A discomfort that lasts for several weeks could be the result of Vitamin D deficiency. Also worth noting, adequate Vitamin D can prevent post workout pain and increase the speed of muscle recovery.
ALSO:
Severe asthma in childrencan be the result of Vitamin D deficiency. Deficiency can exacerbate asthma symptoms. If your child is experiencing severe asthma, it is imperative their Vitamin D levels be thoroughly examined.
A strict vegan diet can precipitate a deficiency as most natural food sources are animal based including fish and fish oils, egg yolks, fortified milk and beef liver.
Darker skin pigment can reduce the body’s ability to make Vitamin D when exposed to sunlight.
In all of these cases, proper supplementation can and will reduce the risk of Vitamin D deficiency.
A simple blood test through your doctor is the best way to assess your Vitamin D levels. If a deficiency is detected it is best to follow your doctors instructions as to how much daily intake should be gotten through supplementation. Most any deficiency should be overcome within 6 months of beginning a comprehensive supplementation and sun exposure regimen.