5 serious diseases Vitamin D deficiency can cause

Vitamin D is much needed for bone health, supporting immunity, regulating mood, and inflammation-- thus making it important for our overall health and well-being. Apart from getting it from foods, Vitamin D is also synthesised in the body when exposed to sunlight and hence it is also called the "sunshine vitamin". However, a large number of people across the world suffer from Vitamin D deficiency, often without even knowing it. This deficiency is mainly due to poor diets and limited sun exposure, and it can lead to more than just fatigue or low mood— it’s been linked to several serious health issues, some of which can be long-term or even life-threatening if ignored. Here we list some serious diseases Vitamin D deficiency can cause:

Vitamin D helps in calcium absorption in the body, which is important for strong bones. And so, Vitamin D deficiency can cause weak bones, leading to osteoporosis and a higher risk of fractures, especially in older adults. A 2011 review on 'The effect of vitamin D on bone and osteoporosis' states that Vitamin D stimulates calcium absorption from the gut. 'The consequences of vitamin D deficiency are secondary hyperparathyroidism and bone loss, leading to osteoporosis and fractures, mineralisation defects, which may lead to osteomalacia in the long term, and muscle weakness, causing falls and fractures'.

Vitamin D plays an important role in regulating insulin sensitivity. And so, Vitamin D deficiency can impair glucose metabolism, thus increasing the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. A 2018 study on 'Vitamin D Supplementation, Glycemic Control, and Insulin Resistance in Prediabetics' stated that "vitamin D supplementation improves glycemic control and attenuates insulin resistance in prediabetics or individuals at high risk of developing diabetes."

Vitamin D affects serotonin levels in our brain, which are linked to influence our overall mood. People with depression are often seen to have a low level of Vitamin D. A 2013 meta-analysis in The British Journal of Psychiatry found that individuals with Vitamin D deficiency were more likely to suffer from depression.

Vitamin D helps in regulating the immune system. And so, a Vitamin D deficiency can trigger autoimmune diseases-- like multiple sclerosis (MS) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA)-- in people. A 2023 study titled 'Vitamin D and Autoimmune Rheumatic Diseases' concluded that "Vitamin D has immunomodulatory properties, and its deficiency may be related to the development of autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE)... Data on vitamin D supplementation have shown that vitamin D may be beneficial in autoimmune rheumatic diseases and may mitigate the autoimmune process and improve pain in the context of these diseases."

Yes, you read that right! Vitamin D deficiency can also lead to certain cancers-- like colorectal, breast, prostate-- in some. On the contrary, studies suggest that adequate Vitamin D levels may reduce the risk of certain cancers. A 2015 study titled 'Vitamin D for Prevention and Treatment of Colorectal Cancer: What is the Evidence?' states the increased "acceptability of vitamin D as critical for cancer prevention and treatment."

Consider supplements if you can't manage natural Vitamin D

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Consuming a healthy diet, along with supplements can help

Fatty fish like salmon, mackerel, and sardines are among the best natural sources, delivering a hefty dose of this vital nutrient. Egg yolks, fortified dairy products like milk and yogurt, and plant-based alternatives such as fortified soy or almond milk also contribute significantly.

Make sure you eat healthy for overall fitness

(Image: Canva)