The Bloody Citizen

Why do we need Vitamin D?
From pregnancy to the infancy, from childhood
to old age, every age has its own requirements
for Vitamin D. In pregnant
women, it results in uncomplicated pregnancy
and developed immune systems while
it helps infants acquire strong and healthy
bones. Children are helped in growth and
development such as building strong teeth
and immune systems. It aids adults in protecting
themselves against cancer and also
in regulating blood pressure. Elderly people
may have a stronger balance and reduced
risks of falling. It also helps them in digestion.
Since the natural source of Vitamin D
(Sunlight) is present in abundance, why
are people increasingly falling a victim
to it’s deficiency?
We get 97% of Vitamin D from the sun; our
bodies make it when it’s exposed to the UV
rays. However, people do not spend alot of
time under sunlight. Ideally, 10-15 minutes
of UVB per day with 40% of our skin
exposed is necessary. It is best if exposed
during the early hours of the day.
How can a person know that s/he is facing
this deficiency?
Common symptoms include weakness in
the body; a person generally feels down due
to lack of Vitamin D. Obesity, bone pain,
face sweat, dry and flaky skin, and an upset
digestive system are some indicators of this
problem.
What are the risks associated with the
lack of it in our bodies?
Brittle bones, muscle weakness and pain,
poor cardiovascular health, depression, and
inflammation are some of the risks of not
getting enough Vitamin D.
It may also lead to cancer and diabetes in
some cases. Ageing people usually face more
complications than the rest.
Who is in danger of suffering from deficiency
of Vitamin D? How is age a factor?
Age has a role to play, the elderly and infants
are more prone to this deficiency. As
a person enters old age, the body loses the
ability to generate the vitamin. As for infants,
human breast milk contains low levels
of vitamin D. Overweight people are also
at risk because it is oil soluble and hides in
fat. Pregnant women may also face it more
than others because of high blood pressure
or preeclampsia. Other than these, darkskinned
people have a disadvantage too because
their pigmentation blocks UVB radiation.
What are the tests a person can get
checked for?
A person can go for blood tests such as
Total Vitamin D or Vitamin D3.
What are some medicines that help in
its treatment?
Medicines come in three forms: powdered,
tablets and injectable. The purpose is to
increase the dosage of the vitamin in your
body. The treatment depends on the severity
of it and it is best to consult a doctor for
the specific treatment you need.
What are some sources that can be included
in our diet?
Food sources include cheese, margarine,
butter, fortified milk, healthy cereals, and
fatty fish.
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