7 Signals You May Be Vitamin D Deficient
By Sandy Schroeder
If you get outdoors a lot, you inherently have fewer worries about a shortage of Vitamin D. You should know that the sun, not food, is our prime source of Vitamin D, and many of us may be at risk.
Some researchers say 50 percent of the general population is at risk. According to The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 32 percent of children and adults in the U.S. are deficient in Vitamin D.
Also, as we head into winter, people in colder climates who get less sun, and seniors who do not get outside much and may not process Vitamin D as well, are at more risk.
Blood testing is the only way to establish Vitamin D deficiency, but there are warning signs. If they show up, see your physician to be tested.
Check These Warning Signs
The Blues Won’t Go Away – The mood-making brain hormone serotonin goes up in bright light and sinks when the sun goes away. If you rarely go outside, and your mood keeps dropping, check for Vitamin D deficiency.
You Have Stomach Issues – If you have gut problems, they may cut your ability to absorb fat, and fat-soluble vitamins like Vitamin D. Conditions include gluten reactions, and inflammatory bowel disease.
Everything Aches – If your bones ache and your doctor is checking for chronic fatigue or fibromyalgia, the problem may really be lack of Vitamin D.
You Are 50-Plus – Everything slows down as you age, and your skin may not make as much Vitamin D when you are in the sun. Also, your kidneys may not be as good at turning Vitamin D into the type your body needs.
You Are Heavier – Vitamin D is fat-soluble and body fat scoops it up. So if you are overweight, or very muscular, you may need more Vitamin D than skinnier people.
Your Skin Is Darker – The more pigment you have in your skin, the more sun is screened out. So you may need to spend more time in the sun to get enough Vitamin D.
Head Sweats – This is a basic sign of the deficiency, often spotted in newborns.
Why Vitamin D Is Crucial
Researchers tells us Vitamin D may cut colorectal and prostate cancer risks, and fight infections, colds and flu. Vitamin D may also lower blood pressure, heart disease, heart attack and stroke risks. It fights autoimmune diseases, such as multiple sclerosis and inflammatory bowel disease, and helps DNA repair to boost anti-aging and the immune system.
If you spot signs of Vitamin D shortages, see your physician to be tested, and discuss supplement levels. At the same time, add some sun to your lifestyle. As you scoop up some Vitamin D, you may give your mood a nice lift, too.
