What Is Vitamin D Deficiency?
Vitamin D deficiency (ICD-10 code: E55.9) is refered to the lack of vitamin d in your entire body. The main reason behind weak muscle, bone functions and potential long-term issues are lied in deficiency of vitamin D in your body. Vitamin plays a crucial role in the absorption of calcium, phosphate, and magnesium. These minerals are essential for vital bodily functions, such as boosting bone strength and supporting the nervous system.
Insufficient vitamin D can result in osteomalacia and rickets in kids, as well as osteomalacia in adults. While sunlight is the primary source of vitamin D, excessive exposure can lead to loss of skin collagen, skin aging and an increased risk of skin cancer due to overexposure of harmful ultra voilet UV rays.
What Are The Stage Of Vitamin D Deficiency?
Vitamin D deficiencies are classified into three main levels: Mild, Moderate, and Severe, as outlined below:
- Mild Vitamin D deficiency: 25-hydroxyvitamin D less than 20 ng/mL
- Moderate Vitamin D deficiency: 25-hydroxyvitamin D less than 10 ng/mL
- Severe Vitamin D deficiency: 25-hydroxyvitamin D less than 5 ng/mL
What Is A Recommended Vitamin D Daily Intake?
Following is the recommended vitamin D intake which is given by various medical experts from different research centers across the globe. If you experience any deficiency, your primary care physicians will suggest multiple test and daily vitamin D intake according to your medical conditions. The Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) for vitamin D is provided below.
| Age | RDA |
|---|---|
| 0-12 months* | 10 mcg |
| 1–13 years | 15 mcg |
| 14–18 years | 15 mcg |
| 19–50 years | 15 mcg |
| 51–70 years | 15 mcg |
| >70 years | 20 mcg |
What Are The Types Of Vitamin D?
Vitamin D is categorized into two main types: Ergocalciferol, which is known as Vitamin D2, and Cholecalciferol, which is known as Vitamin D3.
- Vitamin D2 (Ergocalciferol)
Vitamin D2 is a plant based vitamin which is suitable for vegetarians. Vitamin D2 can be extensively produced due to cultivation cost-effectiveness and production. Major sources of vitamin D2 you can take is from fortified foods which are orange juice, plant-based milk, cereals, margarine, yeasts, infant formula and certain mushroom. Additionally, it is legally available in supplement form (vitamin d tablets and capsules), often in the shape of Vitamin D2 oil-based capsules.
- Vitamin D3 (Cholecalciferol):
Vitamin D3 is sourced from fish and animals and also naturally found in various type of foods. It can also be synthesized from fungus and algae commonly found on trees, soil, rocks, cars, old farm equipment, houses, tombstones and other places like it.
It is always important that when ever you started to incorporate vitamin D into your routine, it's advisable to choose oil-based dietary supplements or consume it with fatty foods due to its fat-soluble nature.
Vitamin D2 and Vitamin D3 - Which One is Superior For Consumption?
Vitamin D exists in two forms, namely D2 (Ergocalciferol) and D3 (Cholecalciferol), both belonging to the subclass of vitamin D. Both D2 and D3 have different effect in your body and also on the level of absorbtion as well.
Vitamin D2, ergocalciferol, plant driven vit D and is comparatively less readily absorbed into the bloodstream when it is compared with Vitamin D3. According to researchers of Harvard Research Center USA, a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials compared the efficacy of D2 and D3 in human body. The findings indicated that D3 has a higher propensity to elevate blood concentration and maintain its levels for an extended period in comparison to D2. Some researchers advocate for Vitamin D3 over D2, highlighting its natural production in the body and its presence in certain foods containing Cholecalciferol. This form is easily converted into the active form of vitamin D3 which is nown as 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D.
14 Signs Of Vitamin D Deficiency Everyone Should Know
Vitamin D, often recognized as the "sunshine vitamin," is crucial for maintaining general health and well-being. Despite its importance, many people may not realize they have insufficient levels of this essential nutrient. In this blog, we'll examine 14 signs that might indicate a deficiency in vitamin D in your body.
Fatigue and Weakness
Feeling persistently tired and weak could be a sign of vitamin D deficiency. This vitamin is essential for energy production, and low levels may contribute to feelings of fatigue.
Bone and Back Pain
Vitamin D is closely linked to bone health, and deficiency may lead to bone and back pain. Individuals with low levels often experience discomfort, especially in the spine and legs.
Muscle Pain
Aches and pains in the muscles, known as myalgia, can be an indicator of insufficient vitamin D. This vitamin is crucial for muscle function and maintenance.
Joint Pain
Deficiency in vitamin D is associated with joint pain and stiffness. Adequate levels are necessary for joint health and mobility.
Impaired Wound Healing
Slow healing of wounds and injuries might be linked to vitamin D deficiency. This nutrient is involved in the production of compounds essential for the healing process.
Depression and Mood Swings
Low levels of vitamin D have been linked to mood disorders, including depression and mood swings. Adequate vitamin D is essential for maintaining a healthy mood.
Hair Loss
While various factors contribute to hair loss in women and men, vitamin D deficiency may play a role. Ensuring optimal levels of this vitamin is crucial for overall hair health.
Frequent Infections
A weakened immune system is a common consequence of vitamin D deficiency. If you find yourself falling ill frequently, it may be worth checking your vitamin D levels.
Difficulty Sleeping
Sleep disturbances and insomnia have been associated with insufficient vitamin D. This vitamin is involved in the regulation of sleep-wake cycles.
Chronic Digestive Issues
Conditions affecting the digestive system, such as Crohn's disease or celiac disease, can impair the absorption of vitamin D, leading to deficiencies.
Head Sweating
Unexplained and excessive head sweating, especially in infants, can be a sign of vitamin D deficiency.
Hypertension
There is evidence suggesting a link between low levels of vitamin D and high blood pressure. Maintaining adequate levels may contribute to overall cardiovascular health.
Weight Gain
Vitamin D deficiency has been associated with weight gain and obesity. Ensuring optimal levels may support weight management efforts.
Impaired Cognitive Function
Some studies suggest that low levels of vitamin D may be linked to cognitive decline and an increased risk of neurodegenerative diseases.
Final Verdict
In summary, knowing the signs of low vitamin D is crucial for good health. This sunshine vitamin is a big deal for bones, the immune system, and how our body works. If you catch the early signs, like feeling tired or having achy joints, you can do something about it—like spending more time in the sun, changing your diet, or taking supplements. Fixing low vitamin D doesn't just make you feel better; it also helps prevent health problems linked to not having enough of this important vitamin. Making vitamin D a priority sets you up for a healthier and stronger life.
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