Vitamin D Deficiency

 

     

Most of us are deficient in Vitamin D especially during the winter months; most of us live in cold climates so we stay indoors most of the day.  Vitamin D deficiency can cause problems such as fractures, osteoporosis, and psoriasis. Also fibromyalgia like symptoms: muscle pain, muscle weakness and bone pain may be caused by vitamin D deficiency.  It can also cause more serious health problems such as increased risk for cancer; such as breast and colon cancer. 

Some of us even avoid the sun during the summer months which may help to prevent the least invasive form of skin cancer, basal cell carcinoma; however, it causes us to be vulnerable to many other problems.  In fact studies show that patients who develop basal cell carcinoma are at a decreased risk for developing colon cancer. 

The best way to increase the body’s levels of Vitamin D is through sun exposure, at least 30% of a person’s skin surface for 30 minutes at moderate latitudes.  It is important not to burn and to consult your doctor before exposing yourself to the sun if you are on any medications that may increase the risk of sunburn.  Cod liver oil, sardines, egg yolks and mushrooms are good food sources of Vitamin D.  However, always make sure to consult your doctor before taking any kind of cod liver oil or synthetic Vitamin D. 

 

 

It’s very important to make sure that your doctor is monitoring your blood levels of Vitamin D (25-OH Vitamin D) and then supplementing with food, sun exposure and Vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol) if applicable.

 

 

 

Please contact Dr. Jillian Finker, Naturopathic Doctor for further information on how to help balance your vitamin D levels:

2308 Bellmore Avenue, Bellmore, NY  11710

(516) 765-3272.