Vitamin D deficiency is something we do not often think about, sadly though, it is a huge issue. Drinking milk is not enough when it comes to getting enough vitamin D.
Vitamin D is something best obtained naturally through exposure to the sun. It is vital if you want strong, healthy bones. If you aren’t eating enough vitamin-D enriched foods or getting enough exposure to the sun you are putting yourself at risk for several different illnesses and health issues.
According to the CDC, thirty-two percent of children and adults through the US are vitamin D deficient and this being an underestimated number. It has been speculated that likely fifty percent of the population is actually vitamin D deficient. When we are vitamin D deficient we are at higher risk for things like rickets, cancer, cardiovascular disease, infections, autoimmune disease, and so forth. We need vitamin D for lots of important body functions.
The only way to know for sure if you are vitamin D deficient is to undergo blood testing, however, there are some signs and symptoms that will help you to be more aware. If any of the following apply to you then you should definitely make an effort to get some blood work done as soon as possible.
Signs You May Be Vitamin D Deficient:
1. You are having gastrointestinal issues.
2. You feel clammy.
3. You are overweight or have a higher muscle mass.
4. You are 50 or older. (As we age our skin does not make as much vitamin D in response to sun exposure.)
5. You have achy bones.
6. You have dark skin.
You should never ignore the signs your body is giving you. When it comes to our health we can never be safe enough. Small things like this add up to be extreme issues the longer we leave them untreated.
