Vitamin D deficiency

Vitamin D is a vitamin of utmost importance for the health of the body, as it helps absorb calcium and phosphorus needed to build strong bones and teeth. But its role goes beyond that, it plays a vital role in many vital functions of the body, such as:

• Bone and joint health: As mentioned, vitamin D is essential for building strong bones and preventing osteoporosis and fractures.

• The immune system: contributes to strengthening the immune system and protecting the body from diseases and infections.

• Mental health: There is evidence to suggest the role of vitamin D in improving mood and preventing depression.

• Muscle health: Helps strengthen muscles and improve physical performance.

Causes of vitamin D deficiency

Vitamin D deficiency can be caused by several factors, including:

• Lack of exposure to sunlight: It is the most common cause, especially in areas with cold weather or in people who spend a lot of time indoors.

• Malabsorption: Some diseases such as inflammatory bowel disease or liver and kidney disease can reduce the body's ability to absorb vitamin D.

• Poor diet: Relying on a low food content of vitamin D and not taking the necessary supplements.

• Ageing: With age, the skin's ability to produce vitamin D decreases.

• Use of some medicines: Some medicines, such as epilepsy and cortisone drugs, may interfere with the absorption of vitamin D.

• Obesity: People who suffer from obesity may have lower levels of vitamin D.

• Tarn skin people: Tarners are more likely to be vitamin D deficiency than white people.

Medical symptoms of vitamin D deficiency

Symptoms may vary depending on the severity of the deficiency and age groups. In mild cases, no noticeable symptoms may appear, but as the deficiency worsens, a range of symptoms can appear including:

• Bone and muscle pain: Vitamin D deficiency leads to impaired ability of the body to absorb calcium, which negatively affects the bones, and the person may feel pain in the joints and muscles.

• Immunity impairment: It is observed that people with vitamin D deficiency are more likely to develop infections and chronic diseases.

• Chronic fatigue and depression: Some studies have found an association between vitamin D deficiency, constant fatigue and psychological disorders such as depression.

Long-term health effects of vitamin D deficiency

1. Osteoporosis and fractures: Vitamin D deficiency leads to bone weakness, which increases the risk of fractures, especially in the elderly.

2. Cardiovascular disease: Vitamin D deficiency is associated with an increased risk of high blood pressure and heart disease. This is due to its role in regulating vascular function.

3. Type 2 diabetes: There is growing evidence that vitamin D deficiency may be associated with an increased risk of type 2 diabetes because of its role in improving the body's sensitivity to insulin.

4. Autoimmune diseases: There is research suggesting that vitamin D deficiency may contribute to an increased risk of autoimmune diseases such as multiple sclerosis and rheumatoid arthritis.

Diagnosis and treatment of vitamin D deficiency

Vitamin D deficiency is diagnosed through a blood test to measure the level of the vitamin. If there is a deficiency, the doctor prescribes vitamin D supplements either by mouth or injection, depending on the severity of the condition. In addition, patients are advised to increase their sun exposure and eat vitamin-rich foods.

Prevention of vitamin D deficiency

To prevent vitamin D deficiency, it is recommended:

• Sun exposure for 10-30 minutes a day, taking care to avoid sunburn.

• Eat foods fortified with vitamin D such as fortified milk and breakfast cereals, in addition to naturally rich foods such as salmon and mackerel.

• Taking supplements under the supervision of a doctor, especially for people who are most prone to deficiency, such as the elderly and people with dark skin.

The conclusion

Vitamin D deficiency is a global health problem that affects millions of people, and can lead to serious health consequences if left untreated. It's important to take preventive steps such as moderate sun exposure, eating vitamin-rich foods, and consulting a doctor to determine the need for supplements. Understanding the importance of this vitamin and attention to maintaining its appropriate levels may contribute to improving public health and reducing the risk of many chronic diseases.