1. Telltale signs that you are deficient in Vitamin D
Often called the sunshine vitamin, vitamin D has an important role in keeping us healthy. Its deficiency can lead to multiple health issues including low immunity.
For the longest time, vitamin D was considered to be the cure for ‘rickets’, which is a childhood bone disease. Over the years, the importance of vitamin D as a nutrient has been unfolded and now we know it plays a vital role in keeping our bones healthy, reducing anxiety and boosting overall immunity.
The deficiency of Vitamin D can make your bones weaker and lead to deformities. It can also lead to hair loss, muscle weakness and lethargy.
A new study published in the Endocrine Society’s Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism notes that people not deficient in vitamin D are likely to experience less severe COVID-19 infection.
Vitamin D absorbs the calcium in the body. Here are some early signs of vitamin D deficiency.
2. Obesity
Obese people are more likely to be deficient in Vitamin D as the fat cells prevent vitamin D from being released into the body.
3. Liver and kidney problems
Diseases related to the kidney and liver can be a sign that you are deficient in vitamin D. This suggests that not enough of it is available to be converted into a source of nutrition and energy for the body.
4. Muscle and bone pain
Weakness and pain in bones and muscles, deformities in joints and chronic backache can be common symptoms of vitamin D.
5. Lethargy
If you are eating healthy, resting well and still feel lazy and fatigued often, it can be an indicator of vitamin D deficiency.
6. Mood swings
Low vitamin D levels in the body can lead to stress and anxiety, which can lead to frequent mood changes.
7. Common vegetarian sources of vitamin D
Fortified soy milk, mushrooms, fortified cereals, fortified orange juice, yoghurt, tofu, sunshine and fortified rice milk are some common vegetarian sources of vitamin D.
8. Common non-vegetarian sources of vitamin D
Salmon, cod liver oil, canned tuna and egg yolks are some common sources of non-vegetarian sources of vitamin D.
9. Vitamin D supplements
Vitamin D supplements can also be taken to boost your intake of vitamin D, especially if you are on a vegan diet.
To enhance vitamin D absorption, it’s recommended to take a vitamin D supplement with a meal. Food that is high in fat like avocado, nuts and seeds are particularly helpful in increasing the absorption of vitamin D in your bloodstream.
As per a study, people who took vitamin D 3 supplements with a high-fat meal had 32 per cent higher vitamin D blood levels after 12 hours as compared to people who ate a fat-free meal.