After an underwhelming summer in terms of weather in some parts of Europe (especially the U.K.), some people may be deficient in the so-termed ‘sunshine vitamin’. A new study shows that a third of U.K. subjects are Vitamin D deficient. What does this mean for their health and how might Vitamin D deficiency display itself?
Expert Nutritionist Naomi Newman-Beinart has told Digital Journal about the warning signs.
Newman-Beinart explains that: “In an ideal world, we would get all of our nutrients from the food that we eat. However, in a time where our diets are dominated by the convenience of fast foods and processed foods, it’s unlikely that everyone can easily meet their daily requirements of vitamins and minerals.”
In terms of the importance of vitamin D, Newman-Beinart details that it “is one of the vitamins your body needs to work as it should. A lack can cause serious health problems if ignored. Many of the population are deficient in vitamin D, which is vital for bone health, mood boosting and the immune system.”
She adds that: “This is essential through Winter and Spring especially, but can be helpful for some people to take all year round, especially those who work or live mostly indoors, those with darker skin, people over 65, pregnant and breastfeeding women, children under 5, and people who are vegan.”
For example, the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) estimates that vitamin D deficiency in the U.K. affects one in five adults and one in six children.
Newman-Beinart provides a closer look at what the signs, symptoms and risks are for people who do not have enough vitamin D.
Constant Coughs and Colds
Newman-Beinart says: “Vitamin D is important for your immune health and vitamin D deficiency may mean your immune defences do not react properly when you come into contact with a cold.”
Supplementing with vitamin D may help to reduce the severity of certain viral infections.
Aching Bones
According to Newman-Beinart: “Vitamin D supports bone health which works to support you by regulating calcium levels within the body. If you aren’t getting enough vitamin D your joints can weaken and you could be more at risk of stress fractures.”
Weak Muscles
Vitamin D is needed for normal muscle function, observes Newman-Beinart. “If your muscles are feeling weak, they may be losing strength due to vitamin D deficiency. This can be more common in older people because elderly people’s skin cannot make vitamin D as well as when they were younger.”
Feeling Low
With mental health, Newman-Beinart states: “Serotonin levels in the brain can be affected by vitamin D deficiency. Serotonin is known as the happy hormone because it is important in keeping your moods up and you feeling your best. A low mood, especially in winter, could be a sign of vitamin D deficiency.”
Dietary sources of vitamin D include:
- Oily fish (tuna, mackerel, salmon)
- Eggs
- Dairy products (milk, cheese)
- Fortified foods (cereal, breads, juices)
- Mushrooms
For people who do not eat these foods and get regular sunshine, it may be worth considering a vitamin D supplement, although medical advice must always be sought.
