Effects of Vitamin D Deficiency
Effects of Vitamin D Deficiency
Vitamin D is a naturally occurring vitamin found in milk, salmon, eggs,
cheese, fortified cereals, beef, and tuna. It can also be made in the body.
When a person is exposed to sunlight, one form of vitamin D is produced
in the skin. Once it is produced in the skin, it is converted to its most
active form in the body by the liver and kidneys. This important vitamin
is necessary for the maintenance of bones, muscles, nerves, blood vessels,
and the heart. A deficiency can lead to muscle and bone deformities
such as Rickets and osteoporosis.
Recent studies show that vitamin D deficiency can also increase a
person’s risk for developing heart disease, high blood pressure, and diabetes.
The American College of Cardiology recommends treating vitamin
D deficiency in adults initially with 50,000 units of vitamin D weekly for 8
weeks, then supplementing chronically with 50,000 units once every 2
weeks or 1,000 to 2,000 units daily. Daily exposure to sunlight for 5-10
minutes is also recommended. Vitamin D can also be obtained through
the diet by eating salmon, tuna, or sardines and drinking milk and juice
that have been fortified with vitamin D.