Signs Of A Vitamin D Deficiency

The body needs vitamin D to promote bone growth, absorb calcium properly, and for other essential body functions. Individuals who don't get enough of the mineral run the risk of osteomalacia in adults, and fragile, soft bones in children. Thirty minutes of sun exposure twice a week will give individuals plenty of vitamin D. It is also found in fatty fish, yogurt, milk, eggs, and cheese. A vitamin D deficiency may be linked to an increased frequency of illness including prostate, colon, and breast cancer; depression, heart disease, weight gain, and other health issues. Research shows individuals who have sufficient levels of vitamin D have a lower risk of disease. Vitamin D is helpful in treating osteoporosis, flu, diabetes, cancer, autoimmune disease, autism, chronic pain, heart disease, high blood pressure, and neuromuscular diseases.

Here are some warning signs of a vitamin D deficiency.

Increased Frequency Of Illness

A 2014 study determined a severe vitamin D deficiency in adults doubled their risk of dementia, including Alzheimer's disease. They found individuals with low vitamin D have a seventy percent chance of developing Alzheimer's and those who had a severely low level jumped to 120 percent.

There is also a link between low blood levels of vitamin D and aggressive prostate cancer in men. Research has shown men with severe erectile dysfunction (ED) had significantly lower levels of vitamin D than men with mild ED. There is an association between vitamin D deficiency and heart disease, hypertension, stroke, and diabetes. Individuals can reduce their risk of heart disease by exercising regularly, maintaining a healthy weight, and eating a healthy diet, including good sources of vitamin D.

Continue reading to learn about more symptoms of a deficiency in this vitamin now.