Vitamin D Deficiency Symptoms
Vitamin D deficiency is the single most common vitamin deficiency in the US population. Most of the vitamins we need are supplied from our food source. Vitamin D is only found in a few foods, such as fatty fish oils and egg yolks. Most of our vitamin D is made by our own bodies in response to sunlight.
Vitamin D deficiencies cause osteoporosis and brittle bones, and there is a link between inflammatory markers and vitamin D levels.
Current research suggests that normal Vitamin D levels may decrease the risk of the following conditions:
- Immune system weakness
- Cardiovascular disease
- Inflammation
- Diabetes
- Dementia
- Cancer
Although many of our foods are vitamin D fortified (e.g. milk products), the US population as a whole exhibits low vitamin D levels, likely owing to insufficient vitamin D from sun exposure.
Excessive intake of certain vitamins, like vitamin D, can lead to constipation, a condition where bowel movements become infrequent and difficult. To prevent this, maintain a balanced approach to vitamin D supplementation and consult a healthcare professional to avoid issues with vitamins that cause constipation.
Everlywell offers a Vitamin D test that you can take in your own home. If you prefer, an alternative test is available to test Vitamin D and an inflammatory marker, C-reactive protein (CRP).
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Test Kit: Everlywell home Vitamin D Test