Are You Experiencing a Vitamin D Deficiency?

At The Arthritis & Infusion Center, we are seeing more and more people who have a vitamin D deficiency. Why should you be concerned? Dietary Guidelines for Americans indicate vitamin D is a nutrient of concern in our diets, advising that people should choose foods that provide more vitamin D … or take supplements. Vitamin D is absolutely essential for good bone health, and it may even help with muscle strength. In addition, it is thought to protect against cancer and type 2 diabetes. Recent studies have indicated that non-Hispanic blacks seem to suffer from the highest rates of vitamin D deficiency, although further research is needed. 

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), ultraviolet light from the sun helps people form vitamin D in the skin. It is then transported to the liver and converted to 25-hydroxyvitamin D, so getting into the sun on a regular basis would help elevate your vitamin D levels. 

A healthy, balanced diet should include plenty of fruits and vegetables, adequate calories, and enough calcium, vitamin D, and vitamin K to minimize bone loss and maintain overall health. While calcium is the most important nutrient for preventing osteoporosis, vitamin D supplements help to preserve bone mass and prevent hip fracture. 

The National Institute of Health also advised that vitamin D is required for the proper absorption of calcium from the intestine. Only a few foods naturally contain significant amounts of vitamin D, including fatty fish and fish oils. Food fortified with vitamin D, such as milk and cereals, are a major dietary source for vitamin D. Unfortunately, vitamin D production decreases in older adults and those who are housebound. The recommended daily intake of vitamin D for adults is 600 IU and 800 IU for adults over age 70. (Note:  Doses of more than 2,000 IU per day is not advised, although larger doses can be given, initially, to those who are deficient as a way to replenish the body.)

 

Dr. Hulon Crayton always advises his patients that “Any pain is not normal. Let us help.”  Contact our office to schedule an appointment to see if you are suffering from a potential vitamin D deficiency, which can lead to osteoporosis. But remember:  A healthy diet and lifestyle are important to optimizing good bone health.