Vitamin D Deficiency – How Do I Know If I’m At Risk? |  |
| Vitamin D Deficiency – How Do I Know If I’m At Risk? Posted: 29 Aug 2014 08:00 AM PDT  Despite the positive discoveries of Vitamin D over the past decade, many researchers are still unsure as to the extent of which vitamin D deficiency plays in disease development. [1] Many experts also disagree on whether or not supplementation or sun exposure is best, with many believing that natural sunlight promotes more balanced blood levels. Despite the barrage of research hitting the scene, organizations continue to differ on recommendations for vitamin D intake.
Recent research suggests that upwards of 75% of the American population is Vitamin D deficient, a number that is far greater than what had previously been considered. [2] Scientists believe this to be on a scale of pandemic proportions. Meanwhile, the majority of the population remains in ignorance of the correct amount of vitamin D they need on a daily basis, and a lack of knowledge in this department can prove damaging to numerous aspects of health. For the sake of your health, it is vital for everyone to understand the risk of vitamin D deficiency and what can be done about it right now. How to Determine If You Are Vitamin D DeficientThe gold standard for knowing whether you’re Vitamin D deficient is blood testing. Blood levels of vitamin D3 (termed 25(OH)D, or 25 Hydroxyvitamin D) are measured using a simple blood test that your family doctor can order. There are also simple and inexpensive at-home tests available, typically consisting of an easy blood "spot" test that can provide a blood level estimation. Vitamin D researchers and experts in this field suggest that the general population should get their levels tested at least once per year. Historically, vitamin D deficiency has been heatedly discussed in terms of what symptoms or health maladies tend to occur in the absence of sufficient intake. Deficiencies have been associated with an increased risk of many common cancers, bone disorders, autoimmune disease, hypertension, and infectious diseases. [3] If you're getting your vitamin D levels checked, here is an easy guideline to tell if you are deficient [4]:
Are You At Risk?A number of variables greatly influence whether or not we are prone to Vitamin D deficiency. To better understand this type of nutrient deficiency, it helps to briefly consider the main natural source of vitamin D — sun exposure. Yet, if we carefully consider the amount of sunlight the average American receives on a daily/monthly/yearly basis, it’s not very appreciable nor consistent with recommendations. Since sun exposure is still the predominant way in which most people receive Vitamin D (though often inadequately), it becomes clear that we need to be cognizant of ensuring sensible sun exposure by making time throughout the week for going outside. SymptomsMany people go through their daily lives with nagging aches and pains, seasonal cold/flu, persistent allergies, and a lack of vitality. Little do we know that these disorders could likely be caused by one thing — Vitamin D deficiency. Recall above that upwards of 75% of Americans are likely deficient. Below are some of the conditions that have been shown to be related to Vitamin D deficiency:
Certain diseases have also been linked to vitamin D deficiency. These include:
Being better informed on what Vitamin D deficiency means and what it entails may be the difference between obtaining a better state of health or a worsening of dis-ease. Learning about what Vitamin D deficiency is, how we tend to become deficient, and the tell-tale health symptoms that result from being Vitamin D deficient can empower us to stay vigilant in ensuring our regular intake of this supernutrient. Do you get enough sunlight, or do you supplement with vitamin D? Let us know your thoughts and comments on this vital nutrient! -Dr. Edward F. Group III, DC, ND, DACBN, DCBCN, DABFM References:
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