Do you have enough Vit D?

Vitamin D is a fat-soluble component present in very few types of foods. It also acts as a dietary supplement. Those who avoid the sun, are prone to allergies or strictly follow a vegan diet are susceptible to vitamin D deficiency. Vitamin D is fundamentally produced when skin is exposed to sunlight.

Importance of Vitamin D

 The UV rays convert calcium into Vitamin D and hence are helpful for good health of bones

  This vitamin is also crucial for absorption and metabolism of phosphorus which is also important for performing certain functions in our body

  Vit D is an immune system regulator that keeps in check the immunity system and fights infections, allergies, and illnesses

 This vitamin aids and strengthens the multi-functions of the brain, which is especially helpful

in old age

 Studies have shown that this vitamin reduces the frequency of asthma symptoms

 By keeping bones strong, it reduces the risk of developing rheumatoid arthritis in adults

Health Risks of Vitamin D Deficiency

Vitamin D is closely related to bones, the problem in joints and weaknesses in muscles are the first signs that one notices due to its deficiency. Vitamin D can be assessed through blood levels and anything under 20 no/l is considered insufficient.

Signs to look out for are listed below:

 This vitamin is an immunity booster. Falling sick often can be signaling that vitamin D deficiency is felt. Frequent infections like the flu, cold and other respiratory tract issues should be taken care of.

  If you are feeling fatigued, tired or restless all the time then chances are that your vitamin D blood levels are sinking. This can be improved by using supplements that boost vitamin D levels.

  Increased Bone pain and back pain- When vitamin D levels are low, the bones start losing sheen, brittleness, and thereby reducing bone density.  This inflicts pain in the areas such as ribs, legs, back, and joints.

  Depression- Feeling low for no reason can be due to vitamin D deficiency. This vitamin surprisingly acts as a mood regulator and feeding your body with this vitamin may keep you happy and healthy.

  Low healing of Wounds- If bones are not healing in time and turn nasty then you should get your vitamin D levels checked as this vitamin helps in early healing of cuts, bruises and other small and large wounds.

 Bone Loss- Preserving bone mass is necessary for the smooth functioning of the body. If bone density is decreasing gradually and pain is felt in areas then chances are that your vitamin intake is very low.

  Hair Loss- Hair loss is closely related to stress, however it may also be experienced when vitamin D levels are low in the body.

  Muscle pain- Those who have a limited amount of vitamin D intake experience frequent muscle pain that amounts to fatigue and tiredness.

Foods Rich in Vitamin D are:

  Milk

  Salmon

  Eggs

  Tuna

  Mushroom

  Fish oil

  Cod liver oil

  Soya milk

  Nuts like Almonds and Walnuts