Vitamin D deficiency can cause bone weakness, fatigue and pain

If you often feel bone pain, muscle weakness or fatigue, it is not only due to exercise or age, but vitamin D deficiency can also be a major cause.

Vitamin D is also commonly called the ‘sunshine vitamin’ and is very important for bones, muscles and overall physical health. In this report, we will present the causes, symptoms, related diseases and treatments of vitamin D deficiency.

Vitamin D: Importance and role in the body

Vitamin D is mainly obtained by the body in two ways.

Sunlight: When the sun shines directly on the body, the body produces vitamin D itself. This process is especially better in the morning or afternoon.

Food: Some foods such as fish, beef liver, eggs, mushrooms, and milk or dairy products also provide vitamin D.

The most important role of vitamin D is to absorb calcium and help it be stored in the bones. When vitamin D is low, the body cannot use calcium effectively, which can make bones weak and prone to fractures.

Causes of vitamin D deficiency

Vitamin D deficiency can occur for a variety of reasons.

Lack of sunlight: Staying indoors in the shade, wearing thick, full-coverage clothing that blocks the sun, or having little sunlight during the season.

Nutritional deficiency: Consuming less vitamin D-rich foods.

Due to various diseases: Some diseases such as intestinal problems, liver or kidney diseases do not allow the body to use vitamin D properly.

Medications and surgery: There may be problems with the absorption of vitamin D and nutrients after weight loss surgery.

These are just a few reasons that can cause low vitamin D levels in the body, and if not detected in time, can lead to health problems.

Common Symptoms of Vitamin D Deficiency

The symptoms of vitamin D deficiency are sometimes not obvious, but some common signs can be identified, such as:

1. Pain in bones and joints

Vitamin D deficiency affects the absorption of calcium, which can make bones soft or weak. In adults, this can lead to a condition called osteomalacia, in which bones become painful and brittle.

2. Muscle weakness and muscle pain

Vitamin D deficiency can lead to increased muscle pain, stiffness, and weakness, which can make it difficult to perform daily tasks and move your body.

3. Constant fatigue and loss of energy

If you always feel tired even after getting enough sleep, or if you feel tired even after light activity, this could be a common symptom of vitamin D deficiency.

4. Mood swings and mental state

Research has shown that vitamin D deficiency may be linked to depression, irritability, and mood swings, although more research is ongoing on this connection.

5. Weakened immune system

Vitamin D also plays a role in keeping the immune system strong, and its deficiency can increase the risk of recurrent infections, colds, etc.

Serious effects of vitamin D deficiency

If vitamin D deficiency becomes severe, it can also lead to some serious conditions, such as:

Osteomalacia

This disease causes bones to become soft and weak in adults, which causes pain, difficulty walking, and an increased risk of fractures.

Rickets

This is a disease in children that causes bones to grow incorrectly and become weak, especially when vitamin D is too low.

Osteoporosis

Long-term vitamin D deficiency reduces bone density, which increases the risk of fractures of the joints, wrists, or hips.

Diagnosis and vitamin D testing

The most accurate way to detect vitamin D deficiency is through a blood test that checks the level of 25-hydroxy vitamin D in the blood. If this level is low, doctors recommend supplements, diet, and lifestyle changes.

Treatment and precautions

1. Get sunlight daily

About 20-30 minutes of direct sunlight, especially in the morning hours, helps the skin produce vitamin D.

2. Foods rich in vitamin D

Fish (such as salmon)

Egg yolks

Milk and dairy products

Mushrooms
Vitamin D is naturally present in these foods.

3. Use of supplements

If you are not getting enough vitamin D from your diet or sunlight, you should take vitamin D supplements as directed by your doctor to bring your levels back to normal.

4. Proper use of calcium

Calcium, along with vitamin D, strengthens bones, so pay attention to foods and supplements containing calcium.

Moderate lifestyle for a healthy life

Routines Balanced life, nutrition, sunlight and proper exercise together provide the best foundation for bone and overall health. Vitamin D is not just a vitamin, but an essential element for strong bones and better energy.