
Symptoms of Vitamin D Deficiency & How to Test for It
, by Aussie Pharma Direct, 13 min reading time
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, by Aussie Pharma Direct, 13 min reading time
Vitamin D, often called the sunshine vitamin, plays a vital role in keeping our bodies healthy. It helps regulate calcium absorption, which is crucial for strong bones and teeth. It also supports a healthy immune system and may even play a role in cell growth.
Surprisingly, vitamin D deficiency is quite common and often goes unnoticed. In fact, nearly one in four Australian adults are deficient. This might seem surprising for a country with abundant sunshine, but sun exposure alone may not be enough for everyone to meet their vitamin D needs. Factors such as lifestyle, geographic location, and individual health can contribute to this widespread issue.
This blog will help you identify the signs and symptoms of vitamin D deficiency and explore how to get tested to determine your vitamin D status. By understanding your vitamin D levels, you can take steps to ensure you're getting enough of this essential nutrient for overall health.
Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin that acts like a hormone in the body, playing a critical role in various physiological processes. Unlike other vitamins, Vitamin D can be synthesised by our bodies when our skin is exposed to sunlight, making it unique and essential for maintaining overall health.
What vitamin D does for the body
Sources of vitamin D
Recognising the signs and symptoms of vitamin D deficiency is crucial for early intervention and maintaining overall health. While some symptoms can be subtle, others may significantly impact daily life. Here are the common signs to look out for:
If you are experiencing persistent symptoms of vitamin D deficiency, such as fatigue, bone pain, or frequent infections, or if you have risk factors like limited sun exposure, dietary insufficiency, or certain health conditions, it’s important to consider testing your vitamin D levels.
Types of tests available
Blood test:
The 25-hydroxy vitamin D blood test: This is the most accurate way to measure the level of vitamin D in your blood. It assesses the concentration of 25-hydroxyvitamin D, the main form of vitamin D circulating in the blood.
A healthcare provider draws a blood sample from your arm, which is then analysed in a laboratory. The results indicate whether your vitamin D levels are sufficient, insufficient, or deficient.
Home test kits:
Home test vitamin D kits provide a convenient way to test your vitamin D levels without needing to visit a healthcare provider. These kits typically involve a finger-prick blood sample that you can collect yourself.
One brand that is available in Australia to check for your vitamin D levels is the TouchBio Vitamin D Rapid Test Kit. This kit allows you to test your vitamin D levels easily at home without any special training or equipment. It provides quick results, making it a practical option for monitoring your vitamin D status, however, it is important to note that home test kits are only used for preliminary testing and should be followed up with a complete diagnosis by a doctor if the test results show positive.
How results are interpreted
Blood test results are usually reported in nanograms per millilitre (ng/mL) or nanomoles per litre (nmol/L). Optimal levels generally range between 20-50 ng/mL (50-125 nmol/L). Levels below 20 ng/mL (50 nmol/L) indicate deficiency.
Incorporate more vitamin D-rich foods into your diet to help boost your levels. Key sources include:
When it comes to improving your vitamin D levels, supplements can be an effective way to ensure you meet your daily requirements, especially if you have limited sun exposure. Vitamin D supplements come in two main forms: Vitamin D2 (ergocalciferol) and Vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol).
Understanding the difference between these two forms can help you make an informed decision about which supplement to choose.
Vitamin D2 vs. Vitamin D3
Vitamin D2 (Ergocalciferol) |
Vitamin D3 (Cholecalciferol) |
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Which is more beneficial?
Research indicates that Vitamin D3 is more beneficial than D2 for improving vitamin D levels in the body. D3 is more effective at increasing the overall vitamin D concentration in your bloodstream and maintaining those levels over time. Therefore, when choosing a vitamin D supplement, opting for D3 is generally recommended.
Combined supplements: D3, K2, and calcium
There are supplements available that combine Vitamin D3 with Vitamin K2 and calcium. These combinations offer several benefits:
Vitamin D3 |
Vitamin K2 |
Calcium |
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The combination of these three nutrients works synergistically to enhance bone health, improve calcium metabolism, and support cardiovascular health. Vitamin D3 ensures optimal calcium absorption, while Vitamin K2 ensures that the absorbed calcium is properly utilised and directed to the right places in the body.\
Find these supplements on Aussie Pharma Direct
For those looking to improve their vitamin D levels, you can find a variety of high-quality supplements on Aussie Pharma Direct. Consider choosing between:
Both options provide the essential nutrients needed to enhance your vitamin D levels and promote optimal health. Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen to ensure it’s appropriate for your individual health needs.
Vitamin D deficiency is a surprisingly common issue, even in sunny countries like Australia. By recognising the signs and symptoms and getting tested, you can take control of your health. If you suspect a deficiency, you can do a self-test at home with a vitamin D test kit or talk to your doctor about a blood test and discuss treatment options, which may include increased sun exposure, dietary changes, or vitamin D supplements.
Remember, maintaining healthy vitamin D levels is an important step towards overall well-being. So, don't let the sunshine vitamin become the one you're missing out on.
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