Vitamin d deficiency

Vitamin D Deficiency is a medical condition that occurs when an individual has insufficient levels of Vitamin D in their body. This deficiency can lead to a number of health problems, including rickets in children and osteomalacia in adults.

Causes

Vitamin D deficiency can be caused by a number of factors, including:

• Limited exposure to sunlight: Vitamin D is produced by the body when the skin is exposed to sunlight. Individuals who live in northern latitudes, work night shifts, or are homebound may not get enough sunlight to produce sufficient Vitamin D.
• Certain medical conditions: Some medical conditions, such as Crohn's disease, cystic fibrosis, and celiac disease, can affect the body's ability to absorb Vitamin D from food.
• Age: Older adults have thinner skin and may not be able to produce as much Vitamin D as younger individuals.
• Diet: Individuals who follow a strict vegan diet may not get enough Vitamin D, as most of the natural sources are animal-based, including fish and fish oils, egg yolks, cheese, and beef liver.

Symptoms

Symptoms of Vitamin D deficiency may include:

• Fatigue and tiredness
• Bone and back pain
• Depression
• Impaired wound healing
• Bone loss
• Hair loss

Treatment

Treatment for Vitamin D deficiency typically involves getting more Vitamin D -- through diet and supplements -- and, if necessary, sunlight.

See Also

• Vitamin D
• Rickets
• Osteomalacia
• Crohn's disease
• Cystic fibrosis
• Celiac disease

Vitamin d deficiency Resources
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