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Vitamin D Deficiency Symptoms

Vitamin D is a vital part of our body’s ability to maintain strong and healthy bones. It also impacts the nervous and muscular system, cardiovascular system, and even cognitive function. Our bodies produce Vitamin D naturally when exposed to direct sunlight; however it’s typically not enough to maintain the proper amount we need on a daily basis. There are a few foods that are rich in Vitamin D such as fatty fish (salmon, tuna) fish liver oils, and egg yolks, but most foods need to be fortified with Vitamin D to help us avoid Vitamin D deficiency symptoms. Milk, orange juice, breakfast cereals, yogurts and other foods are fortified to meet the daily recommended intakes. Most American’s would have a Vitamin D deficiency without these fortified meals.

Vitamin D Nutrition Facts:

• Vitamin D Deficiency Symptoms

• High Risk Groups

• Benefits of Vitamin D

• Recommended Daily Intake

• Sources of Vitamin D

• Excessive Intake Health Risks

Vitamin D Deficiency Symptoms:

A lack of sufficient Vitamin D from an optimum nutrition diet or exposure to direct sunlight can produce Vitamin D deficiency symptoms. While a few foods contain large amounts of Vitamin D, most are fortified to supplement the American diet. The exposure to direct sunlight promotes the development of Vitamin D naturally within our skin. However, since too much exposure to ultra violet rays within sunlight can damage the skin or increase the risk of skin cancer, it is recommended to limit the amount of sunlight we receive. These dynamics lead to a deficiency.

Musculoskeletal Symptoms

• Muscle pains
• Muscle weakness
• Bone pains
• Fragility for both children and adults

Neurological Symptoms

• Fatigue
• Cognitive impairment

Researchers are also looking at the role Vitamin D plays on type 1 and type 2 diabetes, glucose intolerance, colon, prostate and breast cancers, hypertension, heart disease, depression and some autoimmune diseases.

Prevention:

Nutritional supplements are recommended for those with Vitamin D deficiency symptoms. Vitamin D can be found in vitamins and also in fortified foods such as milk, cereals, orange juice, soy beverages, and yogurts. Consult with your doctor or health care professional if you have these symptoms and believe they are caused by a Vitamin D deficiency. Blood tests are the best measure of Vitamin D levels.