Am I Low On Vitamin D?
Vitamin D is one of the most important nutrients we require. It plays a critical role in numerous biological processes within the body, including the absorption of other essential nutrients such as calcium and magnesium. The consequences of being too low in Vitamin D for too long a period can produce a wide variety of detrimental effects on our health – both physical and emotional.
During the hustle of our everyday lives, it is easy to leave such matter unacknowledged. Recent statistics suggest that Hypovitaminosis D (Vitamin D Deficiency) is a healthcare pandemic, with some studies stating that nearly 70 % of the adults in the United States are deficient. Many do not notice until much later in life, when they begin to suffer from osteopathic disease and disorder. Deficiency is not limited to bone problems however; a consistent deficiency can also play a role in the onset of certain cancers, dementia, heart disease, multiple sclerosis, and even depression.
How can you tell if you have a vitamin D deficiency? Unfortunately, there are not always symptoms (or sometimes the symptoms are not readily noticeable). You may feel lethargic and malaise. A persistent low mood that does not resolve may be suggestive. Of course, bone and skeletal problem, especially easy breaks and fractures, can be related to a vitamin D deficiency. Nevertheless, the most reliable way to determine this is by visiting your general practitioner and having the proper blood work ordered.
If you discover that you are vitamin D deficient, you’ll be happy to know that it can be easily corrected. As it can often be difficult to incorporate the right foods into our everyday diets, and given the potential adverse effects of prolonged sun exposure, the most effective method of correction is the introduction of a quality supplement into your daily diet.
As always, discuss any nutritional supplements with your general practitioner or other healthcare provider before you incorporate them into your routine. This will ensure you are able to obtain a quality supplement that suits your specific needs and address any safety concerns that may be warranted in considering your current medical history and medication regimen.