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Vitamin d for sweating. Vitamin D Deficiency: Recognizing Symptoms and Understanding the Importance for Your Health

by alexxlab

Could you be suffering from a vitamin D deficiency. What are the serious signs of low vitamin D. How does vitamin D impact your overall health and well-being. When should you see a doctor about potential vitamin D deficiency.

The Crucial Role of Vitamin D in Your Body

Vitamin D is an essential nutrient that plays a vital role in numerous bodily functions. Despite its importance, many people suffer from vitamin D deficiency without realizing it. This article explores the signs and symptoms of vitamin D deficiency, its impact on health, and ways to ensure you’re getting enough of this crucial vitamin.

3 Serious Signs of Low Vitamin D Levels

Recognizing the symptoms of vitamin D deficiency is crucial for maintaining optimal health. Here are three serious signs that you may be lacking in this essential nutrient:

1. Bone Pain and Discomfort

Do you experience unexplained bone pain? Vitamin D deficiency could be the culprit. Unlike muscle pain, bone pain is characterized by a deep, aching sensation, typically felt in large bones such as the thighs or back. This discomfort occurs because vitamin D plays a crucial role in calcium absorption and bone health.

2. Excessive Head Sweating

Have you noticed excessive sweating, particularly from your head? While commonly associated with infants suffering from vitamin D deficiency, adults can experience this symptom too. You might observe sweat puddles on your pillow or excessive sweat rings in hats. Although other conditions can cause increased sweating, a vitamin D deficiency is a primary suspect when the sweating is predominantly from the head.

3. Mood Changes and Depression

Are you feeling unusually blue or depressed? While depression has multiple causes, a lack of vitamin D can contribute to mood changes. If you notice a correlation between decreased sunlight exposure and a downturn in your mood, it might be worth checking your vitamin D levels.

The Science Behind Vitamin D Deficiency

Understanding the science behind vitamin D deficiency can help you appreciate its importance for your overall health. Vitamin D is unique among nutrients because our bodies can produce it when our skin is exposed to sunlight. However, factors such as limited sun exposure, skin pigmentation, and age can affect our ability to produce sufficient vitamin D.

The Vitamin D Synthesis Process

How does your body create vitamin D? When ultraviolet B (UVB) rays from the sun hit your skin, they trigger a chemical reaction that produces vitamin D3. This form of vitamin D then undergoes two conversion processes in the liver and kidneys to become the active form of vitamin D that your body can use.

Factors Affecting Vitamin D Levels

  • Geographical location and season
  • Time spent outdoors
  • Use of sunscreen
  • Skin pigmentation
  • Age
  • Body mass index (BMI)
  • Certain medical conditions

The Health Implications of Vitamin D Deficiency

Vitamin D deficiency can have far-reaching effects on your health. Research has linked low vitamin D levels to various health issues, including:

  • Osteoporosis and increased risk of fractures
  • Weakened immune system
  • Increased risk of certain cancers
  • Cardiovascular disease
  • Autoimmune disorders
  • Cognitive decline in older adults

Given these potential health risks, maintaining adequate vitamin D levels is crucial for overall well-being.

Diagnosing Vitamin D Deficiency

If you suspect you may have a vitamin D deficiency, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional. They can order a blood test to measure your vitamin D levels and determine if you’re deficient.

Understanding Vitamin D Blood Tests

The most common test for vitamin D deficiency measures the level of 25-hydroxyvitamin D in your blood. This form of vitamin D is the best indicator of your overall vitamin D status. But what do the results mean?

  • Less than 12 ng/mL: Vitamin D deficient
  • 12-20 ng/mL: Vitamin D insufficient
  • 20-50 ng/mL: Adequate for most people
  • Greater than 50 ng/mL: Potential for adverse effects

Treating and Preventing Vitamin D Deficiency

Once diagnosed, treating vitamin D deficiency typically involves a combination of dietary changes, supplementation, and lifestyle modifications. Here are some strategies to boost your vitamin D levels:

Dietary Sources of Vitamin D

While few foods naturally contain significant amounts of vitamin D, some good dietary sources include:

  • Fatty fish (salmon, mackerel, tuna)
  • Egg yolks
  • Mushrooms exposed to UV light
  • Fortified foods (milk, orange juice, cereals)

Vitamin D Supplements

For many people, especially those living in northern latitudes or with limited sun exposure, vitamin D supplements may be necessary. Your healthcare provider can recommend an appropriate dosage based on your individual needs.

Safe Sun Exposure

Controlled sun exposure can help your body produce vitamin D naturally. However, it’s crucial to balance the benefits of sun exposure with the risks of skin damage. Generally, 10-30 minutes of midday sun exposure several times per week can help maintain adequate vitamin D levels for most people.

Special Considerations for Vitamin D

Certain groups of people may be at higher risk for vitamin D deficiency and require special attention:

Vitamin D and Pregnancy

Pregnant women need adequate vitamin D for their own health and the proper development of their babies. Some studies suggest that vitamin D deficiency during pregnancy may increase the risk of complications such as gestational diabetes and preeclampsia.

Vitamin D in Children and Adolescents

Growing children and teenagers need sufficient vitamin D for proper bone development and overall health. Vitamin D deficiency in childhood can lead to rickets, a condition characterized by soft, weak bones.

Vitamin D and Older Adults

As we age, our skin becomes less efficient at producing vitamin D from sunlight. Additionally, older adults may spend less time outdoors and have dietary restrictions that limit their vitamin D intake. Regular monitoring and supplementation may be necessary for this population.

The Future of Vitamin D Research

The field of vitamin D research is continually evolving. Scientists are exploring the potential roles of vitamin D in various aspects of health, including:

  • Cancer prevention and treatment
  • Autoimmune disease management
  • Cardiovascular health
  • Mental health and cognitive function
  • Metabolic health and diabetes prevention

As research progresses, our understanding of vitamin D’s importance in overall health continues to grow.

Taking Action: When to See Your Doctor

If you’re experiencing symptoms of vitamin D deficiency or have concerns about your vitamin D levels, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional. They can assess your individual risk factors, order appropriate tests, and develop a personalized plan to address any deficiencies.

Remember, maintaining adequate vitamin D levels is an important aspect of your overall health and well-being. By being aware of the signs of deficiency and taking proactive steps to ensure sufficient intake, you can help support your body’s many vital functions and potentially reduce your risk of various health issues.

In conclusion, vitamin D plays a crucial role in numerous bodily functions, and maintaining adequate levels is essential for optimal health. By recognizing the signs of deficiency, understanding its importance, and taking appropriate action, you can ensure that your body has the vitamin D it needs to thrive. Don’t hesitate to speak with your healthcare provider if you have concerns about your vitamin D status – your body will thank you for it.

3 Serious Signs of Low Vitamin D

By Genevieve Cunningham

With fall and winter settling in, many people are opting out of the great outdoors in lieu of a warm blanket on the couch. While this is certainly understandable, this can often lead to a bit of a decline in health. It definitely means less in the way of movement, but it also means that you’re likely not getting enough of the important vitamin, Vitamin D. But how can you tell? And why does it matter? Take a look at these signs that your Vitamin D may be lacking, followed by a few tips for getting more.

Your Bones Hurt

Bone pain is uncommon. Unless you’ve had an injury, you currently suffer from a bone disease, or you’re a growing child, bone pain is fairly unlikely to be a problem in your life. But a lack of Vitamin D is almost a sure fire way to experience aches in the bones. Most people who suffer from this symptom describe it as a deep ache that is generally felt in large bones — like the thigh or the back. If this is suddenly happening in your life, it might be time to get your Vitamin D levels checked at the doctor’s office.

Your Head Sweats

This is a common happening for infants who lack Vitamin D, but it can happen in adults as well. When a deficiency in this vitamin is present, a person may experience sweating that seems to come predominantly from the head. You may notice a puddle on the bed where you’ve been lying, or you may notice serious sweat rings in a hat. While there may be other conditions that cause this phenomenon, head sweating is primarily linked to a Vitamin D deficiency, so getting checked may solve the problem.

You Feel Blue

Depression has many causes. Some of the causes are in our control, and some are far out of our reach. If Vitamin D, or a lack thereof, is the cause of your depression, then managing your levels of this vitamin may be a much welcomed cure. If you notice a feeling of the blues creeping up at the same time that you’re not getting the amount of sunlight that you normally do, go ahead and get your Vitamin D checked. A simple increase in this important vitamin can make all the difference in certain cases.

If you suspect that a Vitamin D deficiency is present in your life, get to a doctor to get checked out. They may be able to prescribe you a supplement to help level it out. You can also drink more whole milk, one of the only foods with Vitamin D, or simply get out in the sun. Be proactive, and make sure that the proper amount of Vitamin D is in your body to boost your health and life for the better.

To learn more about your health and wellness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Johns Creek, Ga.

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Health effects of vitamin D

Vitamin D affects many human organs and systems. The synthesis of sex hormones and carbohydrate metabolism, the proper functioning of the thyroid gland, the cardiovascular, nervous and reproductive systems depend on it.

In addition, the vitamin affects the absorption of calcium, strong immunity, well-being and our appearance. It has been proven that a sufficient amount of vitamin D in the body reduces the risk of developing autoimmune diseases, malignant tumors and diseases of the cardiovascular system.

How vitamin D is obtained

Vitamin not in vain is called “solar”. It is synthesized in the body under the influence of UV rays (cholecalciferol D3) and comes from food (ergocalciferol D2).

Many factors influence the formation of a vitamin in the body:

  • time of year, geographic latitude,

  • amount of time spent outdoors during the day

  • food and others.

Consider which foods contain the “sunshine” vitamin:

  • dairy and dairy products. For example: cottage cheese, milk, curdled milk, etc.;

  • cod liver, as well as chicken and beef;

  • fatty fish. For example: herring, tuna, mackerel, etc.;

  • chicken eggs, quail;

  • mushrooms. For example: mushrooms, white, chanterelles, etc .;

  • oil. For example: linseed, sunflower, ghee, etc.

Vitamin D deficiency symptoms

Most people are deficient in this vitamin and don’t realize it.

Vitamin D deficiency symptoms:

  • Frequent colds

  • Pain and weakness in muscles and bones

  • Increase in blood pressure

  • Weight gain

  • Chronic fatigue, depression, mood swings

  • Daytime sleepiness, sleep disturbance

  • Poor calcium absorption: hair loss, dental problems, bone loss, fractures

  • Heart problems: arrhythmia, tachycardia, pain in the heart area

  • bowel problems

  • Increased sweating

Vitamin D and immunity

Vitamin D protects the body from infections and supports the health of the immune system, so its deficiency can be one of the causes of poor health. Given the current sanitary and epidemiological situation in the country and in the world, the issue of protecting immunity is extremely important.

Vitamin D and reproductive health

Vitamin D as a powerful steroid hormone affects a number of vital processes in the body, including reproductive function. D-hormone affects the reproductive organs both directly, by binding to its receptor, and indirectly by stimulating the synthesis of steroid hormones. It is known that, for example, estrogen, progesterone, testosterone are necessary for the maturation of follicles and endometrium in women.

Today we have available the results of studies proving the effect of the vitamin on the course of some gynecological diseases. For example, low levels of the vitamin increase the risk of endometriosis because the disease meets the criteria for an autoimmune pathology.

The pathogenesis of any autoimmune disease is not complete without inflammation against the background of impaired immune regulation. Since vitamin D has a proven anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effect, it is not excluded that vitamin D deficiency may cause a systemic inflammatory response, which is a major factor in the development of endometriosis.

Here is another example demonstrating the effect of a vitamin on the development of gynecological diseases. It is known that vitamin D affects the sensitivity of tissues to insulin, and insulin resistance is recognized as one of the main factors in the pathogenesis of PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome). Also, low levels of the vitamin are considered as one of the factors of obesity leading to insulin resistance and PCOS.

The results of assisted reproductive technologies (ART) also confirm the positive effect of the vitamin on the reproductive function of women. Vitamin deficiency is associated with a low percentage of successful pregnancies and childbirth in patients after ART. On the contrary, adequate vitamin D levels improve outcomes in terms of successful clinical pregnancies (25 OH D – more than 30 ng/ml).

Thus, the state of women’s health depends on the level of vitamin D in the body.

Vitamin D and calcium absorption

Vitamin D is necessary for the absorption of calcium, on which depends: immune defense, healthy bones, teeth, nervous system, blood clotting, the activity of organs, muscles, nerves and much more.

In women over 40 years of age, as a result of hormonal changes, there is an intense loss of calcium from bone tissue, which can cause the development of osteoporosis. With such a disease, bone tissue ceases to regenerate normally and retain calcium, its mineral composition changes, and density and strength decrease. As a result, the risk of fractures increases even with relatively low loads.

A sufficient level of D-hormone is necessary throughout life, but it is especially important to monitor the level of the vitamin in the blood of women of mature and late reproductive age in order to detect its deficiency in a timely manner and correct the level.

Get tested for vitamin D

For healthy and active longevity, it is necessary to keep your health condition under control. The study of the level of 25-OH vitamin D in the blood is an important test that helps to identify vitamin deficiency in the body.

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Vitamin D what it is: Vitamin D

General information

Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin that exists in two forms – vitamin D 3 and vitamin D 2 901 45 . D 3 is synthesized in the skin by exposure to the sun and is found in foods that naturally contain the vitamin: cod liver and oily fish such as salmon, mackerel and tuna. Vitamin D 2 (ergosterol) comes only from food, found in mushrooms, yeasts and some oils. Both vitamins differ chemically only in the structure of their side chains, but the activity of vitamin D 3 is 25% higher than that of vitamin D 2 .

During exposure to sunlight, the 7-dehydrocholesterol (7-DHC) molecule that is present in the skin is converted to provitamin D 3 . 7-DHC is present in all layers of human skin, 65% is concentrated in the upper layer of the skin – the epidermis. Part of synthesized provitamin D 3 transforms into vitamin D 3 , in the initial stages the reaction depends on UV irradiation. The other part of provitamin D 3 is converted into lumisterol and tachysterol, which are its inactive metabolites. Lumisterol and tachysterol are formed during prolonged exposure to solar ultraviolet radiation, thus preventing sun-induced vitamin D intoxication 3 . The amount of pigment in skin cells, UVB light intensity, overall skin health and other factors affect the process of vitamin D synthesis 3 .

Vitamin D requires two additional activation steps. The first stage occurs in the liver cells, where 25-hydroxycholecalciferol or 25(OH)D 3 is formed. The level of this vitamin D metabolite provides an indication of the status of vitamin D in the body. The second step is the conversion of 25(OH)D 3 to 1,25-dihydroxycholecalciferol or 1,25(OH) 2 D 3 (calcitriol) in the kidneys. It is the more complex form of vitamin D that has the main biological effect. Renal hydroxylation of vitamin D is strictly regulated, enhanced under the influence of parathyroid hormone, stimulated by low levels of calcium and phosphorus in the blood, inhibits the synthesis of the active metabolite hyperphosphatemia and the metabolite itself 1,25(OH) 2 D 3 .

Effect on the bone apparatus

The primary role of vitamin D in the body is to maintain serum levels of calcium and phosphorus in a healthy physiological range, which promotes skeletal growth and bone mineralization. 1,25(OH) 2 D 3 interacts with its VDR receptor in the small intestine, increasing the efficiency of calcium and phosphorus absorption in the intestine; by increasing the number of cells that destroy bone tissue and stimulate the release of calcium and phosphorus into the bloodstream.

Vitamin D and regulation of gene activity

The interaction of 1,25(OH) 2 D 3 with its receptor also leads to changes in the activity of a number of genes. Binding of the active metabolite to the receptor leads to upregulation or downregulation of gene activity. Between 200 and 2000 genes have been shown to have vitamin D response elements. A recent study showed that an increase in serum concentrations of 25(OH)D 3 was associated with a 1.5-fold change in gene expression. Improvements in vitamin D status promote changes in the expression of genes that are responsible for more than 80 metabolic pathways associated with cancer, autoimmune disorders, and cardiovascular disease. 3% of the human genome is under the influence of vitamin D.

Vitamin D receptors are present in most tissues and cells of the body.

Extrarenal vitamin D synthesis

Tissues of the brain, prostate, breast, vascular smooth muscle and macrophages have not only receptors, but also the enzyme 1-alpha hydrolase, due to which local synthesis of the active form of vitamin 1,25 (OH) is possible 2 D 3 . The extrarenal enzyme 1-α-hydroxylase in macrophages differs from renal hydroxylase in that it is independent of parathyroid hormone levels. Enzyme activity directly determines the level of circulating 25(OH)D 3 , as well as cytokines: IFN-γ, IL-1 or TNF-α.

The production of the active vitamin depends on the level of circulating 25(OH)D 3 , indicating the biological importance of adequate blood concentrations.

Vitamin D and extra-osseous effects

Vitamin D is involved in the functioning of the immune system, affects all nonspecific defense mechanisms. By modulating cytokine levels and regulating the division of T-helper lymphocytes and differentiation of B-lymphocytes, calcitriol regulates a specific defense system.

Vitamin D has been shown to be an important link in the homeostasis of the immune system and prevents autoimmune diseases such as type 1 diabetes, multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis and other inflammatory diseases.

Vitamin D has an oncoprotective effect. It is noted that the frequency of breast cancer and colon cancer increases against the background of low levels of vitamin D in the blood.

Vitamin D is involved in the regulation of carbohydrate and fat metabolism through its influence on the central metabolic receptors: insulin receptor substrate, insulin-like growth factor, peroxisome receptor.

According to epidemiological studies, vitamin D deficiency is associated with the risk of metabolic disorders – metabolic syndrome and type 2 diabetes mellitus.

The direct anti-inflammatory effects of vitamin D on the vascular system and several other mechanisms mediate its cardioprotective properties.

In experimental models of Alzheimer’s disease, vitamin D 3 has been shown to reduce brain amyloid accumulation and improve cognitive function.

Pregnancy and vitamin D

Vitamin D benefits the health of the mother and unborn child. Calciferol helps implantation of the embryo and supports the normal course of pregnancy. Vitamin D supports fetal growth by delivering calcium, controls the secretion of placental hormones, and limits the production of anti-inflammatory substances.

Low maternal vitamin D status can affect neurodevelopment, immune system development and predisposition to chronic disease later in life, including immediately after birth. Inadequate intake of vitamin D during pregnancy can lead to low birth weight and contribute to future language difficulties in children.

Maternal vitamin D deficiency in early pregnancy may be an independent factor in preeclampsia and caesarean section.

Vitamin D deficiency test

Blood levels of 25(OH)D 3 are the best method for determining vitamin D status because the active metabolite is rapidly excreted by the kidneys.

The daily requirement for vitamin D is usually met by the diet of the majority of the population. A “sufficient” level is 20 ng/mL. To convert to nmol/l, the value obtained must be multiplied by 2.496. A value of 20 ng/ml is considered sufficient to maintain the health of the skeletal system, but not for other systems. Therefore, the Endocrinological Society has recommended that vitamin D levels be interpreted as follows:

  • vitamin D deficiency as a 25(OH)D level 3 of 20 ng/mL or less;
  • vitamin D deficiency 21 to 29 ng/ml;
  • vitamin D sufficiency as 30 ng/ml or more;
  • target levels 25(OH)D 3 40 to 60 ng/mL;
  • concentrations of 25(OH)D 3 above 100 ng/ml are considered toxic and are associated with the effects of vitamin D hypervitaminosis.

Risk groups for vitamin D deficiency:

    • breastfed children;
    • elderly people;
    • people with limited sun exposure;
    • people with inflammatory bowel disease and malabsorption syndrome;
    • people with dark skin;
    • obese people.

    Vitamin D deficiency and musculoskeletal system

    Vitamin D deficiency can lead to soft or malformed bones. In children, this condition is called rickets. Adults have osteomalacia. According to the latest data from large studies, the level of 25(OH)D 3 in serum more than 20 ng / ml minimizes the risk of osteomalacia, ensuring the functioning of the musculoskeletal system at the proper level.

    Vitamin D deficiency is manifested by secondary hyperparathyroidism, bone loss, and an increased risk of low-traumatic fractures. Proximal muscle weakness is an important clinical feature of vitamin deficiency.

    Rickets

    Historically and currently, the most common etiology of rickets is vitamin D deficiency. Low maternal levels of 25(OH)D 3 have been found to correlate with increased distal femoral femoral extension as determined by ultrasound.

    Children begin to show clinical signs of rickets, starting with neurological symptoms: irritability, sleep disturbance, increased tearfulness. A common early symptom in newborns is excessive sweating. With a deficiency of vitamin D, there is a delay in the closure of the fontanelle and a delay in the eruption of milk teeth.

    Level 25(OH)D 3 less than 20 ng/mL often occurs in children with unspecified pain in the extremities or back. Later, bone symptoms appear: “rachitic rosary”, protrusion of the chest forward, X-shaped or O-shaped legs, cubic shape of the skull.

    Non-skeletal effects of vitamin D

    Reduced risk of psychiatric disorders, certain cancers, infectious diseases, cardiovascular events, type 2 diabetes mellitus, and autoimmune pathologies are associated with serum 25(OH)D 3 levels below 32 ng/mL.

    Vitamin D and cancer

    Adequate levels of 25(OH)D 3 are critical for the prevention of solid tumors. It was suggested that the local transformation of 25(OH)D 3 in 1.25(OH) 2 D 3 in healthy cells of the colon, breast and prostate can prevent tissue malignancy by stimulating the process of death of malignant cells, as well as preventing the formation of new vessels in the tumor tissue, preventing an increase in its size.

    Vitamin D regulates a range of physiological responses, including modulation of the immune response, resistance to oxidative stress, and influences the activity of other hormones. Not surprisingly, low vitamin D status is associated with an increased risk of several types of cancer and death from it.

    Vitamin D and infectious diseases

    There is an inverse correlation between serum vitamin D value and infectious diseases. The lower the 25(OH)D 3 values, the higher the likelihood of acute respiratory and intestinal diseases. Vitamin D deficiency has been linked to rising rates of influenza and upper respiratory tract infections.

    Supplementation of the treatment regimen for bronchial asthma with vitamin D reduces the risk of developing attacks and is indicated for severe disease.

    People with chronic inflammatory bowel disease also have low vitamin D levels.

    Vitamin D and cardiovascular disease

    Numerous studies have shown that there is an inverse relationship between the concentrations of 25(OH)D 3 and 1. 25(OH) 2 D 3 and coronary artery calcification. Serum values ​​of 25(OH)D 3 and 1.25(OH) 2 D 3 are lower in patients with myocardial infarction.

    A short course of vitamin D 4000 IU for 5 days prevents the rise in circulating inflammatory cytokines after an acute coronary syndrome.

    Levels less than 30 ng/mL are associated with the development of metabolic syndrome and hypertension, hyperlipidemia, and peripheral vascular disease. This effect is mediated in part by an effect on the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone axis.

    Vitamin D and metabolic disorders

    Results from 11 large studies have shown a high incidence of type 2 diabetes in the setting of low vitamin D levels.

    Vitamin D and autoimmune disease

    Epidemiological, genetic and basic scientific research points to the potential role of vitamin D in the pathogenesis of several systemic and organ-specific autoimmune diseases such as type 1 diabetes mellitus, rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis and Crohn’s disease.

    Type 1 diabetes mellitus is the result of cell-mediated autoimmune destruction of pancreatic beta cells. Studies of various populations around the world have shown high levels of vitamin D deficiency in children with type 1 diabetes. The incidence of type 1 diabetes is higher in countries farthest from the equator than in countries closest to the equator.

    Vitamin D affects the level of specific Th27 lymphocytes responsible for the pathogenesis of rheumatoid arthritis. An inverse relationship has been found between vitamin D intake and future development of rheumatoid arthritis. With an increase in vitamin D intake, the incidence of disease decreases by one third. Taking high doses of vitamin D 3 resulted in an improvement in the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis in 89% of patients, with 45% experiencing a stable remission.

    Evidence continues to accumulate to support the protective role of vitamin D in relation to the risk and progression of multiple sclerosis.