Knowledge: Signs of D Deficiency

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You know there are many benefits of vitamin D – strong bones, improved mood and according to recent research, more efficient weight loss. But the symptoms of a deficiency in this critical vitamin are lesser known and you should be aware.  Here are eight signs of vitamin D deficiency:

  1. HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE – Believe it or not, vitamin D plays a role in heart health. It helps to regular blood pressure, so if you’re deficient in D, your blood pressure levels are at risk of elevating.
  2. UNEXPLAINED MUSCLE WEAKNESS – Decreased muscular size can be the result of vitamin D deficiency in your muscle and nerve tissue.If you notice that you’re unable to complete muscular tasks you once could, you might need more vitamin D.
  3. EXTREME SADNESS – According to a study in The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism, women with low levels of vitamin D are twice as likely to experience depression.
  4. CHRONIC PAIN – Insufficient levels of vitamin D have been linked to increased pain sensitivity as well as chronic pain, especially in black Americans.
  5. STRESS FRACTURES –Vitamin D promotes bone growth but when you’re lacking in D, your bones become weakened, thereby increasing your risk of fractures.Some studies suggest that the risk actually doubles if vitamin D levels are extremely low.
  6. EXCESSIVE FATIGUE – In a study published in the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine, low levels of vitamin D were linked to higher levels of daytime fatigue. Before reaching for another cup of coffee, try increasing your vitamin D consumption and see if it helps.
  7. CRABBINESS – If it’s not PMS, it might be vitamin D deficiency. Vitamin D affects the levels of serotonin in your brain, which in turn impacts your mood.  If you’re feeling overly cranky, perhaps you’re missing vitamin D.
  8. DECREASED ENDURANCE – If you’re someone who is used to exercise and suddenly find that your endurance isn’t what it was, it’s possible that your vitamin D levels are to blame. Several studies point to reduced aerobic capacity and overall endurance in athletes with low vitamin D levels.