There's a whole alphabet of vitamin names – vitamin A, vitamin B12, vitamin C, vitamin D – but of these, the
one that may be most important to your good health is vitamin D. This is why it's important that you know about
vitamin D deficiency symptoms.
Vitamin D And Calcium
For many years, vitamin D was thought to be necessary for calcium absorption, making it important in the prevention of osteoporosis.
Now, however scientists believe that a lack of vitamin D can play a part in the development of many diseases, including heart disease, cancer and diabetes.
Vitamin D Deficiency Symptoms
The biggest problem with vitamin D deficiency symptoms is that they remain almost invisible until it's too late. While pain can be a visible symptom of a vitamin D deficiency, the biggest symptoms are weaker bones and a variety of bone-related diseases, including osteoporosis. Unfortunately for us, we often don't realize we have a bone disease such as osteoporosis until we have fractured bones.
A lack of vitamin D can also cause a disease named osteomalacia in adults. This disease, which is a softening of the bones, is also usually not seen until it's too late to do much about it. Another, more visible symptom of a vitamin D deficiency is muscle weakness.
A lack of vitamin D in children can result in growth retardation – the child simply does not grow as well as he or she should. Children who suffer from a vitamin D deficiency can have bone deformities. Both adults and children can develop soft bones and bone pain. They both can also experience frequent bone fractures.
Other Symptoms Of A Vitamin D Deficiency
In addition to diseases such as osteoporosis and osteomalacia, a burning sensation in the mouth and throat can be a symptom of a vitamin D deficiency. This deficiency can also result in weight loss caused by a loss of appetite. Some individuals suffering from a vitamin D deficiency have reported visual problems, vomiting, constipation, abdominal pain, diarrhea and insomnia.
A vitamin D deficiency can also affect the brain and moods. If you're suffering from such a deficiency, you may have periods of depression or may suffer from the “winter blues,” which is also called Seasonal Attitude Disorder (SAD).
Since a vitamin D deficiency can have such a serious effect on our general health, it's important you know what causes vitamin D deficiency...
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