Although vitamin D can be taken in some amount through diet, it is a vitamin synthesized mainly in our skin by the photochemical effect of sunlight (Ultraviolet B). After being synthesized in the skin, it is converted to its more active form in the liver and kidneys. It is a vitamin that can be stored in the liver and fat. In a study conducted in England, vitamin D deficiency and insufficiency were detected in more than half of the population during the winter and spring periods. Similarly, in a study conducted in our country, a deficiency rate of 51.8% and an insufficiency rate of 20.7% were found. In other words, vitamin D levels of two out of every three people in our society are not at the desired level. Therefore, vitamin D deficiency is now considered a global epidemic.
What are the symptoms of vitamin D deficiency?
Some patients have no symptoms. In some patients, the main symptoms are fatigue, general body pain, bone sensitivity, and loss of strength that causes difficulty in walking in the future. However, today's scientific research has shown that vitamin D has many functions in the body, and therefore may cause different symptoms such as susceptibility to infection, mood swings, depression, hair loss and headache. There are studies showing that vitamin D deficiency may trigger diabetes, cancer, especially breast cancer, and rheumatic diseases.
Who are the people at higher risk with vitamin D deficiency?
<Elderly
Those who work indoors and are not exposed to enough sunlight
Those who use sunscreen ( e.g. high factor)
Those with kidney and liver disease
Those who use epilepsy medication and cortisone
Those with nutritional disorders
Those with celiac disease
Women during pregnancy and breastfeeding are at higher risk individuals.
What are the treatment methods for vitamin D deficiency?
First of all, it is sufficient in spring and summer for individuals who do not have any disease. The body should be able to synthesize and store its own vitamin D through sunbathing. Thus, it is enough During the winter months when the sun is not visible, the body will meet its needs with this tank. The main thing to consider when sunbathing is that the sun's rays directly contact the skin, that is, not to use sunscreen and not from behind the glass. 20-30 minutes of daily sunbathing on the arms and face will be sufficient. In order to be protected from the harmful effects of sunlight, noon hours when the sun is directly overhead should not be preferred. Liver, eggs and fish are foods containing vitamin D and should definitely be included in the diet.
However, individuals with complaints should be given supplemental vitamin D treatment. For this purpose, there are vitamin D medications that can be taken by injection or orally. Since vitamin D can be stored in the body, toxic doses should not be reached. Therefore, it would be correct for your doctor to determine the dose according to your complaints and laboratory values.
In conclusion; Deficiency/insufficiency is quite common. Correct and conscious sunbathing and diet are important for protection. Considering that we cannot benefit sufficiently from sunlight today, it can be said that the importance of vitamin D supplementary treatment is increasing.
Have a healthy day…
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