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Vitamin D has been referred to as the “Sunshine Vitamin” because ultraviolet light stimulates its production. Vitamin D also occurs naturally in a few foods such as egg yolks and fish, as well as some fortified dairy products and grains. Having an adequate level of Vitamin D in your body is important because a deficiency has been linked to a number of health conditions. These conditions include:
What Causes Vitamin D Deficiency?
There are a number of potential reasons for someone to suffer from a low level of vitamin D.
Limited Sun Exposure
Most obvious is that your exposure to sunlight is, or has been, limited. This can often be attributed to the increased use of sunscreen – especially in older adults. It can also be the result of seasonal factors. For example, the shorter winter days experienced by Americans in the North and Northeast of the U.S.
Reduced Dietary Vitamin D
It’s also possible that some people don’t get enough Vitamin D in their diet. This can be especially true for strict vegetarians as most foods that contain vitamin D tend to be animal–based (fish, egg yolks, beef liver).
You Have Darker Skin
Individuals with darker skin have higher levels of melanin which reduces the skin’s ability to product vitamin D in response to sunlight.
You Are Obese
Vitamin D is extracted by fat cells which alters it’s release into the circulation. Studies have shown that individuals with body mass indexes of 30 or more, may be at greater risk for experiencing low levels of vitamin D.
Normal Range: VITAMIN D 25, HYDROXY: 16.0 – 74.0 ng/mL
High Results Indicate: Elevated levels may indicate hypervitaminosis D which can lead to high calcium levels.
Low Results Indicate: Low levels may indicate lack of adequate levels of Vitamin D in the diet, liver and kidney disease, malabsorption, low blood calcium levels or thin or weak bones.