Many people overlook the impact of vitamin D deficiency, but it can manifest in a surprising range of unpleasant symptoms. Recognizing these signs and addressing them proactively is essential for overall health and well-being. Around 29% of U.S. adults are deficient in vitamin D, and an additional 42% are insufficient, making it a widespread concern.
Recognizing the Biggest Sign: Persistent Tiredness
The most common indicator of a vitamin D deficiency is persistent tiredness and a general feeling of unwellness. Functional practitioner B.J. Hardick, D.C., has noted that low vitamin D levels contribute to fatigue, which can be corrected with sufficient intake. A 2019 study of multiple sclerosis patients demonstrated that improving vitamin D status led to improved quality of life and reduced fatigue. Often, general achiness and feeling unwell accompany fatigue, which, when combined with other low-vitamin D signs like low mood or frequent illness, can be particularly noticeable during winter months.
While factors like late nights, travel, or stress can easily be blamed for fatigue and general malaise, experiencing these symptoms consistently suggests it’s time to get your vitamin D levels checked.
Other Potential Signs
Vitamin D plays a vital role in numerous bodily systems, and deficiency can lead to a variety of effects. Look out for these potential signs:
- Frequent illness
- Low mood
- General achiness
- Fatigue
Testing and Optimal Levels
If you suspect you might be deficient, consult your healthcare provider for a 25(OH)D serum test – or consider an at-home test. It’s important to understand your results and know the recommended levels. While 30 ng/ml was once considered the target, many experts, including board-certified endocrinologist Brittany Henderson, M.D., now recommend aiming for levels above 50 ng/ml. Reaching this level can significantly impact overall health.
Addressing Deficiency Through Supplementation
Because dietary sources of vitamin D are limited, and sunlight exposure isn’t always enough, supplementation is often the most effective way to achieve and maintain healthy vitamin D levels. Mindbodygreen provides a selection of top-rated vitamin D supplements to help you reach your goals.
Even with awareness of the importance of vitamin D, regularly testing and addressing deficiency is key to achieving truly healthy levels.
The takeaway: it’s worth getting your vitamin D levels tested, and if they are below 50 ng/ml, consider supplementation to support your well-being. Addressing this deficiency can significantly impact energy levels and overall health
