Vitamin D deficiency - symptoms and effects

Vitamin D3, known as cholecalciferol, is one of the key ingredients for human health. Despite its importance for our body, deficiency is a common problem all over the world, including in Poland. This is primarily due to insufficient exposure to the sun, because the vitamin is produced in the skin under the influence of UVB radiation. What are the symptoms and effects of this nutrient deficiency?

Vitamin D - what is the norm?

In our country, the level of sunlight is particularly low. Effective production of vitamin D3 is possible mainly from May to September and only during certain hours - from 10:00 to 15:00. It is worth noting, however, that both clouds, smog and filter creams block UVB rays and thus limit production. More and more people are also aware of the harmful effects of the sun on our skin, limiting exposure even further. The deficiency may also be caused by some diseases, including: kidney disease.

Due to the difficulty of obtaining enough vitamin D3 from food and sun, supplementation is very important. Preparations are available in various forms, including tablets, drops and capsules. The dosage depends on age, body weight and vitamin level in the body. With long-term supplementation, it is important to regularly check its blood concentration to avoid overdose.

What is the standard of vitamin D? If during laboratory tests we received a result in the range ≥30-50 ng/ml (i.e. ≥75-125 nmol/l), it is normal. This means that the supplementation is well selected and does not need to be changed. If the value is in the range of ≥50-100 ng/ml (i.e. ≥125-250 nmol/l), maintaining or reducing the supplemented dose should be considered, as such a concentration is already considered high. A result in the range of ≥20-30 ng/ml (from 50 to 75 nmol/l) indicates the need for supplementation (or its increase), while a value below 20 ng/ml indicates a severe deficiency.

Vitamin D deficiency - how do we know that we don't have enough of it?

The deficiency of this ingredient may manifest itself in many ways. Some of them also occur with various ailments, so if we have doubts, it is best to check the level of vitamin D. What are the most characteristic symptoms?

• Bone and joint pain - this type of ailments are directly related to the function of the described ingredient, namely the metabolism of calcium. Insufficient levels can lead to pain, especially in the spine, hips and joints.
• Increased susceptibility to infections - this is due to the fact that the vitamin plays an important role in the functioning of the immune system. Its deficiency translates into the risk of more frequent illnesses.
• Fatigue and weakness - people with deficiencies are often accompanied by a feeling of fatigue that does not go away even after rest. Muscle weakness is also noticeable, which manifests itself in difficulty getting up from a sitting position. You may also experience more frequent muscle cramps.
• Mood changes and depression - one of the typical symptoms of this nutrient deficiency is mood disorders caused by changes in brain functioning. In extreme cases, they can even lead to depression.

It is also worth paying attention to other symptoms, including hair loss, deterioration of sleep quality, problems with concentration and poorer wound healing.

Effects of vitamin D3 deficiency

Vitamin D3 deficiency can lead to a number of health problems. In children, it results in, among others: rickets, a disease characterized by bone weakness. As a result, limbs are deformed, as well as deformations of the chest and spine. Children suffering from rickets develop muscle laxity and tooth decalcification. Noticeable growth retardation, frequent infections, diarrhea, problems with sleep and concentration, and increased sweating.

In adults, deficiency may, in extreme cases, lead to osteomalacia (bone softening) and osteoporosis. In addition, people suffering from vitamin D deficiency are more susceptible to bone fractures and deformations. In their case, there is a high risk of respiratory infections and hypertension. It is worth mentioning that vitamin D3 has the ability to modulate the immune response. It is worth emphasizing that its deficiency may lead to an imbalance in the immune system, which increases the risk of autoimmune diseases. Due to its ability to lower the levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines and increase the levels of anti-inflammatory cytokines, regular intake is an excellent prevention.

Vitamin D - learn about its valuable properties

Taking vitamin D is key for those who want to maintain their mental abilities at a high level throughout their lives. This is due to its neuroprotective effect. Deficiencies of this substance may increase the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease and other cognitive disorders. They can also lead to multiple sclerosis. Vitamin D3 supplementation is recommended, especially for people who notice the first symptoms of cognitive disorders, characteristic of the early stages of dementia.

Another important aspect of vitamin D is its potential anti-cancer effects. It involves limiting the proliferation of cancer cells. Moreover, calcitriol, one of the metabolites of vitamin D, plays a role in regulating the cell life cycle. Therefore, vitamin D3 supplementation is particularly important for people waiting for organ transplantation, because it can help inhibit rejection reactions and at the same time reduce the risk of viral or fungal infections.

How to supplement vitamin D?

The use of vitamin D3 is crucial for maintaining health on many levels. When choosing a preparation, it is important to pay attention to the dose, form and other ingredients. Some supplements may contain vitamin K2, which helps absorb calcium. Before you start taking any product, it is best to test your vitamin D level to determine the dose you need. People who have doubts in this matter can consult a doctor.