Lorraine: Dr Amir says spine could shrink if deficient in vitamin D
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The first sign is one that anybody can relate to, especially if they’re a new parent.
That is, feeling tired all the time.
According to Holland and Barrett, vitamin D levels have been shown to improve signs of fatigue.
The second symptom is head sweats; a common sign of a lack of vitamin D deficiency.
If you’re feeling particularly sad this may partly be to do with low vitamin D levels.
Serotonin, also known as the happiness chemical, needs vitamin D to be made in the brain.
Weak muscles are also a symptom of Vitamin D deficiency.
In older adults, a lack of Vitamin D is linked to muscle weakness
Vitamin D also helps our bodies absorb calcium to keep our bones, muscles and teeth healthy.
Not only does Vitamin D keep our bones healthy, it’s also essential in maintaining a strong immune system.
It is good practice, and recommended by many, that you take Vitamin D supplements in the winter to reinforce your immune system to help fight off winter infections
Weight gain is another sign of Vitamin D deficiency.
Research suggests that low Vitamin D levels are linked to obesity.
Correspondingly, those with higher Vitamin D levels had lower levels of body fat.
Aching bones and joints, specifically in the knees and back, is evidence that you need to increase your vitamin D levels.
This is because, as mentioned, vitamin D plays a key role in your bone health.
With regard to mental health, Holland and Barrett note that those with low levels of Vitamin D are around 11 times more likely to develop depression than those without low levels of the vitamin.
However, more research is needed in this area to provide a definitive conclusion.
The main way to increase your Vitamin D levels during the winter is to take a vitamin D supplement.
You can find Vitamin D in fish, eggs, red meat and wild mushrooms.
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