Vitamin D, known as the vitamin that comes from sun exposure, is one of the essential nutrients for the body to obtain energy and, therefore, function optimally, as it helps process the benefits found in some foods.
Its importance is such that it contributes to the absorption of calcium in our bones and even regulates the absorption and excretion of calcium and phosphorus in our bodies. Furthermore, this vitamin stimulates the assimilation of proteins in the intestine after its consumption through our diet.
What are the risks of vitamin D deficiency?
According to Millaray Leiva, a nutritionist at Clínica RedSalud Valparaíso , “ Vitamin D deficiencies are currently strongly associated with the development of osteopenia, osteoporosis, some types of cancer, parathyroid hyperplasia, type 1 diabetes, and cardiovascular disease .”
Furthermore, " in children, vitamin D deficiency causes rickets, which is defective bone growth," he adds. The latter refers to a deformity in the leg bones, which causes them to appear "bent ."
What are the symptoms associated with your deficiency?
Some of the most common symptoms are:
- Muscle spasms: These conditions can occur in most parts of the body.
- Parathyroid gland hyperplasia: This condition can be seen visually, as it increases the volume of the neck (near the "Adam's apple"), better known as goiter.
- It is worth noting that vitamin D deficiency is common in patients with kidney disease, due to the lack of a renal enzyme (renal hydroxylase), which is essential for regulating the functioning of our kidneys.
- Also, medications containing corticosteroids , such as prednisone, interfere with the absorption of vitamin D , so it is important to consume foods and supplements away from these drugs.
Where can we get this vitamin? There are two ways to obtain vitamin D:
- By the action of sunlight or ultraviolet (UV) radiation in contact with the skin.
- By consuming certain foods that contain significant amounts of vitamin D. These include milk and dairy products, eggs, salmon, sardines, liver, and foods fortified by the food industry.
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