Are You Still Not Supplementing with Vitamin D?

Vitamin D deficiency symptoms

 

Did you know that a lack of vitamin D can lead to tooth decay? Beyond that, there are other symptoms of vitamin D deficiency that aren't just dental related.

Here's an easy way to understand how vitamin D deficiency can affect your body.

Vitamin D deficiency symptoms

Vitamin D deficiency is becoming increasingly prevalent in the modern world due to a lack of outdoor activity and exercise, with 95% of women being deficient.

Let's take a look at some of the symptoms of vitamin D deficiency.

◾Vitamin D helps the body absorb calcium, so a deficiency can lead to weak muscles and bones, osteoporosis and osteomalacia. It can also lead to dental problems, such as tooth decay and inflamed gums.

◾Your immune system may be weakened and you may experience more frequent autoimmune diseases such as colds, asthma, atopy, and hives.

◾A lack of vitamin D can affect serotonin and melatonin, which regulate emotions and sleep, leading to depression.

◾Vitamin D acts on receptors in the brain to regulate blood sugar and weight, which can lead to obesity, diabetes, and high blood pressure.

 

So how do you get enough vitamin D?

How to get vitamin D

◾To prevent vitamin D deficiency, experts recommend spending 5 to 30 minutes outdoors in the sun without sunscreen on your arms and legs between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. at least twice a week.

◾Get vitamin D from food

◾Taking a vitamin D supplement

 

 

When to take Vitamin D

Vitamin D is fat-soluble, so it's best to take it right after a meal.

If you can't be bothered to take it every day, taking a high-dose vitamin once a week can provide some benefit.

This is because vitamin D is stored in the liver and used in small amounts when needed.

 

Vitamin D side effects

Fat-soluble vitamin D is one of the safest vitamins compared to other vitamins.

However, since one of the main roles of vitamin D is to increase the movement of calcium in the body, taking high doses of vitamin D can lead to hypercalcemia.

In addition to this, arrhythmias and loss of appetite can also occur. That's why it's recommended to get your vitamin D blood levels checked at the doctor's office and take vitamin D supplements.

 

Curious about foods high in vitamin D?

We've put together a handy list of foods that are high in vitamin D for you to check out.

Foods High in Vitamin D Quick Check

 

We hope all families are well.