Warning signs of Vitamin D deficiency
Did you know that you may be lacking Vitamin D? Vitamin D is an essential Vitamin used to absorb calcium and promote bone growth. There are many ways to get it, but in this fast-paced society, people tend to dismiss taking in Vitamin D.
As our work lives accelerate and people are finding entertainment indoors, it’s getting harder for everyone to remember to get some sunshine now and then. Sun exposure is a natural way to intake Vitamin D going outdoors for 10 to 20 minutes is a healthy way to maintain blood levels several times per week. People with darker skin tend to need more time in the sun because they contain more melanin than fair skinned people. Then again, your time out in the sun should also depend on how sensitive your skin is.
Exposure to sunlight isn’t the only thing that helps our bodies retain Vitamin D. Eating foods high in Vitamin D every day is the best way to take it in.
Here is a list of foods that are high in Vitamin D:
- Salmon
- Herring
- Sardines
- Cod liver oil
- Canned tuna
- Oysters
- Shrimp
- Egg yolks
- Mushrooms
- Fortified foods; Cow’s milk, Soy milk, Orange juice, Cereal, and Oatmeal
Staying on top of eating foods high in Vitamin D is always good, but is limited to the number of foods that contain it especially if you have a food sensitivity. Supplements are also an excellent alternative to getting more Vitamin D daily.
Believe it or not, Vitamin D deficiencies aren’t just for people that live in shadier and cold climates. Anyone can be affected if they don’t take in Vitamin D in either of the statements above. Even doctors can have Vitamin D deficiencies. Busy practitioners that work indoors for most of the day can lack sunlight or not eating enough foods and supplements with Vitamin D.
Some common signs of Vitamin D deficiencies to look out for are:
- Frequently getting sick or having infections
- Tiredness and fatigue
- Back and bone pain
- Depression
- Bone loss
- Muscle pain
- Impaired wound healing
- Hair loss
Taking Vitamin D can help you bounce back from these deficiencies and can also prevent irregular mood swings, fight diseases, and boosts weight loss.
In the end, make sure you are participating in regular outdoor activities and eat foods high in Vitamin D or supplements.