human body, and for more reasons than you might be aware of.
Many people are reported to be deficient in Vitamin D, with a major chunk of the Indian population
falling quite short of the optimal levels. While the general assumption is that there is a lack of
Vitamin D-rich foods in our day-to-day diets, experts attribute the deficiency of the vitamin to a
variety of factors. An increase in time spent indoors, rising levels of pollution, unhealthy diets that include processed foods, and more such reasons are said to further affect ideal Vitamin D levels
among Indians.
Importance of Vitamin D
Vitamin D includes a group of compounds such as Vitamin D1, D2, and D3. These are fat-soluble
compounds, which means that the body stores them in the liver and fatty tissues and secretes them
when required. The body produces these compounds when it is exposed to natural sunlight, hence
giving rise to the term ‘sunshine vitamin’.
The recommended daily intake of Vitamin D lies somewhere between 400 and 4,000 IU, but experts
sometimes may suggest a higher intake to meet the functional requirements of the body.
Here are some of the most important benefits of Vitamin D –
• Strengthens the immune system
• May prevent certain types of cancer
• Strengthens teeth and bones
• Boosts the mood, and helps prevent psychological disorders such as anxiety and depression
• Improves brain function
• Lowers the risk of type-2 diabetes
• Can lower the risk of rheumatoid arthritis
• Can help lower blood pressure
…and more.
Most importantly, Vitamin D is required by the body to process the calcium and phosphorous that
help build bones and support healthy tissues.
What are the long-term health issues associated with low Vitamin D levels?
Although Vitamin D deficiency is common in India and many parts of the world, the condition cannot
be left untreated. Optimal levels of Vitamin D are required by our bodies to carry out several
functions and prevent many ailments.
Some of the most common complications that can arise from low Vitamin D levels include low blood
calcium levels, low blood phosphate levels, as well as osteomalacia and rickets, which is the softening of bones in adults and children, respectively. While these conditions can be cured if detected early, over time, they can result in serious bone disorders and severe cases that give rise to
serious complications.
In adults, Vitamin D deficiency can be identified by these common and often-overlooked symptoms –
• Muscle weakness or cramps
• Fatigue
• Bone pain
• Mood changes – anxiety or depression
Even if these symptoms are not present, a person could be deficient in Vitamin D. Your doctor can
prescribe a blood test to check if you are within range and suggest supplements or lifestyle changes to treat any deficiencies.
Why is there a cause for concern in India?
Animal products are the best naturally occurring sources of Vitamin D. With India having a
predominant vegetarian population, it is difficult for people to meet their daily recommended intake
with just diet alone. Foods such as fatty fish (salmon, tuna, sardines), eggs, mushrooms, beef liver,
etc., are rich sources of Vitamin D, but are not commonly consumed by Indians. In addition, animal
products like milk and yogurt are not often fortified with Vitamin D, which can mislead the
population about their assumed intake of the vitamin. Many Indians are also dark-skinned, which is
another factor of concern. The higher the melanin content in the skin, the more difficult it is for the
skin to absorb UV rays to synthesize Vitamin D. Lastly, catering our lifestyles to spend more time indoors inhibits the absorption of sunlight, thereby preventing proper Vitamin D production in our
bodies.
Takeaway
Maintaining ideal Vitamin D levels is crucial for the body to uphold the nervous system,
musculoskeletal system and immune system. While there are several multivitamins in the market, it
is best to consult with your doctor to identify the right option for you. There have also been
discussions about homeopathy and homeopathic medicine helping people maintain good health and
nutrient balance in the body. Consult with an expert to know more.
The Vitamin D3 and K2 supplement from Hevert India comes in a capsule-format and offers you the
ideal combination of micronutrients to meet your requirements. The mixture of these nutrients
allows the body to absorb calcium optimally, aiding you in your journey to maintaining healthy bones
and muscles.