Vitamin D Deficiency: Prevalence, Causes & Health Consequences

Vitamin D Deficiency: Prevalence, Causes & Health Consequences

Introduction

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) states that 80% of Indians are
vitamin D-deficient. Vitamin D deficiency is a condition in which your body lacks adequate levels of vitamin D, either due to insufficient intake or absorption issues. It hinders proper bone growth and maintenance, leading to several related health complications.


Vitamin D deficiency can affect individuals of all ages, genders, and other factors. It can
occur for various reasons, such as insufficient sunlight exposure, inadequate dietary intake, and underlying medical conditions that impair absorption.


While it can occur at any age, it is more pronounced in children, whose bones are still
developing, and in individuals over 65, as the skin’s ability to synthesise vitamin D declines. Vitamin D deficiency is both preventable and treatable through adequate sunlight exposure, proper nutrition, and supplementation; however, it requires consistent effort.


This blog provides an overview of vitamin D, including what it is, why the body needs it, the consequences of deficiency, its causes, signs and symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment.


What Is Vitamin D and Why Is It Important?

Vitamin D is an essential micronutrient. More specifically, it is a fat-soluble vitamin your body needs for effective functioning. It plays a crucial role in bone development and maintenance.It also affects the proper functioning of your nervous, musculoskeletal, and immune systems.

It helps the body absorb and utilise calcium, magnesium, and phosphate from the food you eat. This is essential to balance calcium levels in your bones and blood, thereby supporting bone development and tissue health.


What Is Vitamin D Deficiency?

As mentioned, vitamin D deficiency is a condition where your body lacks adequate levels of vitamin D. Vitamin D levels are measured in 25-hydroxyvitamin D or 25 (OH) D in your
blood.

Since individuals differ, vitamin requirements may vary. However, medical professionals and nutrition experts generally classify the following vitamin D levels in the human body as excessive, normal, or deficient:

Vitamin D Level (ng/mL) What It May Indicate
50 nanograms per millilitre or more Higher range: May be above typical levels and should be monitored.
20 nanograms per millilitre or more Within normal range: Generally considered adequate for overall health.
12 nanograms per millilitre or less Lower range: May be associated with insufficient levels.

 

The following is a more detailed breakdown of the severity levels of vitamin D deficiency:

Vitamin D Level (ng/mL) General Classification
Less than 20 nanograms per millilitre Mild deficiency
Less than 10 nanograms per millilitre Moderate deficiency
1Less than 5 nanograms per millilitre Sever deficiency

What Happens When You Have a Vitamin D Deficiency?

As explained earlier, vitamin D aids in the absorption of calcium, magnesium, and phosphate from the food you eat, supporting bone development, maintenance, and overall tissue health. Given this, the following changes may be observed when vitamin D levels are low:

  • Low levels of calcium in your blood, which could influence overall balance.

  • Changes in parathyroid activity as the body works to maintain normal blood calcium levels.

    These changes may be associated with vitamin D deficiency symptoms like muscle
    weakness, cramps, and fatigue, which can affect your daily activities.

  • Reduced bone mineral density, where bones gradually lose strength and break faster than they can reform.

  • Changes in bone health in adults which may affect overall bone strength.

Changes in bone development among children leading to soft and weak bones.
These changes in bone health can affect bone strength and recovery time. In growing children, maintaining adequate nutrient levels is important for overall development and growth.

What Are Some Common Vitamin D Deficiency Causes?

The following are the most common vitamin D deficiency causes:

  • Inadequate sunlight exposure:

Sunlight is the primary source of Vitamin D. The vitamin is produced in your skin on
exposure to Ultraviolet B (UVB) rays. Hence, when you do not get adequate sunlight
exposure, your body may suffer from vitamin D deficiency.


Sunlight exposure depends on several factors, some within your control and others beyond it. For example, the clothes you wear and the time you spend outdoors in the sun are in your control. Wearing clothing that covers most of the body limits exposure to sunlight. Spending less time outdoors reduces the total time spent in the sun.


Factors beyond your control can lead to inadequate sunlight exposure, including weather
conditions and geographic location. During rainy and winter seasons, the sun may be visible for only a short time, reducing exposure. In certain geographic locations, the sun may be visible for only limited periods, and its rays may be less intense, resulting in inadequate sun exposure.

  • Poor dietary intake:

Your diet is a major source of nutrition, providing both macronutrients and micronutrients, including vitamin D. Hence, when you consume a poor diet, it leads to vitamin D deficiency. Furthermore, it can lead to deficiencies in vitamin B12 and other nutrients, affecting overall well-being and potentially causing both short- and long-term health complications.

  • Age:

As you age, your body undergoes various changes that affect how it absorbs nutrients,
functions, heals, and performs other essential processes. With age, your skin’s ability to synthesise Vitamin D decreases; hence, the risk of developing vitamin D deficiency increases.

  • Melanin levels:

Melanin is your skin’s natural sunscreen. It protects your skin from Ultraviolet (UV) rays that can cause skin cancer. During this protective process, it may reduce your skin’s ability to absorb vitamin D, potentially leading to a deficiency. Hence, if you naturally have higher levels of melanin, you are more prone to vitamin D deficiency. High levels of melanin are often characterised by a darker skin tone.


What Factors Hinder the Proper Absorption of Vitamin D in the Body?

At times, your body may receive an adequate amount of vitamin D from primary sources;
however, it may not be able to utilise it effectively due to improper absorption, leading to
deficiency. The following are factors that hinder the proper absorption of vitamin D in your body:

  • Body Mass Index (BMI):

Body Mass Index, or BMI, is a measure of your body weight relative to your overall height
and estimates body fat. Hence, each individual's BMI varies and can change. It affects overall health; therefore, it is an important consideration.

Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin. This means it gets stored in your liver and fatty tissues. A high BMI indicates a higher amount of body fat. As a result, the vitamin D absorbed by your body is stored in fat rather than being available for bones and blood. This leads to vitamin D deficiency.


Generally, a BMI of 30 kg/m² or higher falls into the high BMI category, increasing the
possibility of vitamin D deficiency and several other health complications.

  • Kidney and Liver disease:

On intake, Vitamin D exists in two forms in your body: inactive and active. Your body needs active vitamin D to support various functions. Your Kidneys and Liver produce enzymes: 1- alpha-hydroxylase and 25-hydroxylase, respectively, which convert inactive vitamin D into active vitamin D. However, in the presence of kidney or liver disease, these organs may be unable to produce the necessary enzymes required to activate vitamin D from its inactive form. This often leads to vitamin D deficiency.


Individuals with vitamin D deficiency, should take medical guidance from healthcare
professional. They may prescribe supplements to help restore normal levels. However,
certain health conditions may impair the absorption of these supplements. The health
conditions are mentioned below:

  • Crohn’s disease: A chronic Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD), affecting the
    digestive tract. It is characterised more specifically by inflammation in the small
    intestine. It is incurable; however, its symptoms can be managed to some extent with proper, consistent effort.

  • Cystic Fibrosis: Also known as CF, it is a genetic condition that affects cells that
    produce fluids like mucus, sweat, and digestive juices. These play an essential role in the body's effective functioning. Due to this genetic condition, bodily fluids become thick and sticky, clogging the lungs and pancreatic pathways. This interferes with normal function and leads to various complications.

  • Celiac Disease: It is an autoimmune disorder that’s hereditary in nature. It is linked
    to a protein called gluten. When you eat gluten, it triggers an abnormal immune
    response. The immune system attacks the gluten in your digestive system, causing
    inflammation in the small intestine. This inflammation prevents proper nutritional
    absorption.

If you have existing health concerns or are taking medications, it is important to consistently monitor your nutritional levels and take medical guidance regularly from a healthcare professional.


What Are the Signs of Vitamin D Deficiency?

The signs of vitamin D deficiency can vary widely between individuals. In some, they may be subtle, in others, more pronounced. Similarly, symptoms may appear early in some people and much later in others. Commonly, vitamin D deficiency symptoms are classified based on age.
Signs of vitamin D deficiency in children:

  • Incorrect bone growth and development, evident as bowed or bent bones
  • Bone pain
  • Muscle weakness, accompanied by muscle soreness and pain

Signs of vitamin D deficiency in adults:

  • Fatigue
  • Bone pain, especially joint pain
  • Muscle weakness. Common instances of cramps and pain
  • Sudden mood changes

How Is Vitamin D Deficiency Diagnosed?

The healthcare professional requires you to take a blood test to check your vitamin D levels and determine whether you have a deficiency. They may also take down and assess your complete medical history and current health conditions to identify the reasons for vitamin D deficiency linked to nutritional absorption issues.

How Is Vitamin D Deficiency Treated?

Although vitamin D deficiency is a common medical condition, treatment plans vary from
person to person, depending on individual health factors. Hence, on being diagnosed with vitamin D deficiency, consult a qualified healthcare professional for treatment. Your treatment plan may include the following:

Supplements:
Your healthcare professional may prescribe vitamin D and other supplements to ensure
adequate intake and effective absorption. These supplements may be administered asinjections or tablets. The duration, dosage, and frequency will be determined by the
healthcare professional.


Dietary intake focus:
A healthcare professional may also recommend you focus on your diet, as it is a natural
source of vitamin D and other essential macro- and micronutrients. They may suggest that you include the following foods in your diet as they are rich in vitamin D and other nutritional values:

  • Cheese
  • Some types of mushrooms
  • Yogurt
  • Eggs
  • Fatty fish
  • Fish liver oil
  • Milk – Cow, soy, oat, and almond
  • Breakfast cereals
  • Orange juice


Sunlight exposure:
Vitamin D is synthesised in your skin when it is exposed to sunlight. Therefore, whether for the prevention or maintaining adequate levels, your healthcare professional may recommend ensuring adequate sunlight exposure. 

Ideally, you need to spend at least 30 minutes in sunlight per day to get adequate vitamin D from sunrays. Make sure your face, arms, and legs get direct sunlight. Avoid excessive use of sunscreen, as it can block your skin’s ability to synthesise and absorb vitamin D.


How long does vitamin D deficiency treatment take?

The duration of vitamin D deficiency treatment (to restore normal levels) varies from person to person, depending on the severity of the deficiency and other medical factors. In many cases, treatment has been observed to take around six months with regular supplementation and consistent supportive measures. Check with a healthcare professional to get an estimate of the treatment duration.

Even after your vitamin D levels are restored, your healthcare professional may recommend continuing a nutrient-rich diet, regular sunlight exposure, and a monthly supplement to prevent recurrence of deficiency.


Conclusion:

Vitamin D deficiency is affecting individuals worldwide, yet it often goes unrecognised. The deficiency occurs when your body has a low vitamin D intake or is unable to absorb it
effectively. It affects bone health and could lead to the development of several other medical conditions.

To maintain health vitamin D levels, you need to get enough sunlight, eat a nutrient-rich diet, and take supplements as needed and suggested by your healthcare professional.

Nature’s Way Alive offers an extensive range of nutrient supplements that boost your body with the essential nutrients it needs. You can find a variety of supplements that are made from plant-based ingredients to support overall health. They are available in tablet and gummy forms, making them easy and convenient to consume.

Disclaimer: This content is intended for general informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. The information provided does not claim to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease or medical condition. Individual health needs may vary, and readers are advised to consult a qualified healthcare professional before making any changes to their diet, lifestyle, or supplement intake.

Nature's Way products are nutraceuticals and are not a substitute for medical treatment.

Medically reviewed by our healthcare experts.

References:

FAQs:

What are the first signs of vitamin D deficiency?

In children, signs of Vitamin D deficiency include improper bone growth and development and muscle pain. In adults, the signs are fatigue, bone pain, muscle cramps, and sudden mood changes.

What are the most common reasons for vitamin D deficiency?

Lack of adequate sunlight exposure and poor dietary intake are common causes of vitamin D and multivitamin deficiencies.

How much vitamin D do I need every day?

Adequate vitamin D intake varies by age. A vitamin D level of 20 nanograms per millilitre or higher is considered normal for maintaining good health.

Can vitamin D deficiency cause depression?

Vitamin D deficiency causes mood swings in adults. However, its correlation with depression has yet to be confirmed through solid scientific studies.

How long does it take to recover from vitamin D deficiency?

The recovery time from vitamin D deficiency varies for everyone, depending on the severity of the deficiency and other medical factors. The normal case recovery time is 6 months, provided there has been consistent effort.
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