7 signs your body is missing vitamin D
Photo: Symptoms of vitamin D deficiency (Freepik)
Vitamin D is one of the most important nutrients for overall health. It supports strong bones, immune function, and a stable mood, yet millions of people don’t even realize they’re deficient in it. Cleveland Clinic explains the symptoms of vitamin D deficiency.
Why vitamin D is so important
It's called the sunshine vitamin for a reason, as the skin produces it when exposed to sunlight. This vitamin helps the body absorb calcium, strengthens bones, and regulates immune functions.
Moreover, Vitamin D affects muscle performance, cell growth, and helps reduce inflammation in the body.
The problem is that there are very few natural sources of this vitamin. Sun exposure is limited in winter, and diet alone often doesn’t provide enough of it.
How to recognize a vitamin D deficiency
Constant fatigue
If you're getting enough sleep but still feel exhausted, it could be a sign of low vitamin D levels.
Muscle pain or weakness
A deficiency can reduce muscle strength and increase the risk of injury, especially in older adults. Dull pain in the bones and joints is also common.
Low mood or anxiety
Vitamin D helps regulate the production of serotonin, often called the "happiness hormone." A lack of it may lead to apathy, depression, or seasonal mood disorders.
Excessive sweating
Particularly on the face, even without physical exertion. This is one of the lesser-known but early symptoms of deficiency.
Brittle bones or frequent fractures
Without enough vitamin D, calcium is poorly absorbed, which can lead to osteoporosis in adults or rickets in children.
How to increase vitamin D levels
More sunlight
Just 10-20 minutes of sun exposure a few times a week is enough to help maintain healthy vitamin D levels.
Nutritious foods
Include fatty fish (salmon, tuna, mackerel), eggs, cheese, mushrooms, and fortified milk or cereals in your diet.
Supplements only under medical supervision
Excess vitamin D can also be harmful, so supplements should be taken only after a blood test and a doctor's recommendation.
You may also be interested in:
- Three supplements to take with magnesium for better sleep
- Why vitamin D can be dangerous
- Four vitamins you shouldn't combine with green tea
This material is for informational purposes only and should not be used for medical diagnosis or self-treatment. Our goal is to provide readers with accurate information about symptoms, causes, and methods of detecting diseases. RBС-Ukraine is not responsible for any diagnoses that readers may make based on materials from the resource. We do not recommend self-treatment and advise consulting a doctor in case of any health concerns.
