Why Should I Check My Vitamin D Level?
Vitamin D can be gained from certain foods we eat as well as UV rays on our skin, but why do we need it?
Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin which is known to promote bone health as it aids the absorption and retention of calcium and phosphorus which helps prevent fracture, rickets, osteomalacia and osteoprosis. It is also believed to increase muscle strength because the active form of vitamin D binds to certain receptors found on muscle cell membranes and in muscle cell nuclei. This enhances muscle contraction and protein synthesis and therefore supports a healthy, stronger muscle. Vitamin D is also known to prevent colds and flu as it activates the immune system and activates the cells which fight bacteria and viruses. Most people become unwell with colds and flu during the winter months when levels of vitamin D are lower due to less hours of UV sunshine.
There is still lots of research being conducted into the full effect vitamin D has on our bodies. Some research so far is suggests that it can also help prevent certain types of cancers and multiple sclerosis. It is also believed to help keep a good level of cognition and lower the risk of depression in later life.
So, what are the symptoms of vitamin D deficiency?
Fatigue
Muscle cramps and pain
Depression
Bone pain
Bone growth abnormalities in children
Sometimes there are no symptoms at all
How can I get vitamin D?
Egg yolk
Oily fish
Red meat
Liver
Fortified foods such as some cereals and fat spreads
Cheese
Vitamin D suppliments
Sunlight on skin
If you have any symptoms of vitamin D deficiency, or you feel you would like to have your vitamin D level checked to make sure it isn’t low, please get in touch to book an appointment! Earwax Wizards will come to you at home and take a blood test. The blood will be sent off to a laboratory, reviewed by a doctor and the results returned to you via email within 48 hours! Vitamin D deficiency is very easily fixed so don’t delay having it diagnosed.
You may also be interested in our blog post on anaemia, which can present with some similar symptoms to vitamin D deficiency and is also available to test through a blood test with Earwax Wizards.
