Your body obtains vitamin D naturally from two sources, food and sunlight. Vitamin D-containing foods include the flesh of fish, such as salmon, mackerel, tuna and sardines, according to the Office of Dietary Supplements. Foods such as cereal, milk and orange juice can be fortified with vitamin D to increase your daily intake.
When skin is exposed to the sun, a chemical reaction that produces vitamin D is triggered. If you do not take in enough vitamin D, highly adverse health effects can occur.
Soft Bones
Rickets is a bone-softening condition that affects primarily children, according to the Mayo Clinic. The body relies on vitamin D to absorb bone-strengthening calcium and phosphorus to build healthy bones. Without enough vitamin D, bones become soft and weakened. Developing rickets results in chronic lack of vitamin D. Initial signs include bowed legs, a curved spine or the breastbone projecting out. Symptoms associated with rickets include tooth problems, bone pain and muscle weakness. Children ages three to 36 months experience the greatest risk of developing rickets. If you are currently breastfeeding a child this age, your milk may not provide enough vitamin D for sufficient bone growth, according to MedlinePlus. Check with your child's pediatrician regarding any supplementation needs.
Muscle Weakness
Vitamin D provides strength to the bones and muscles, according to the Linus Pauling Institute at Oregon State University. Without enough vitamin D, adults and children may begin to experience muscle pain or weakness. You may find yourself unable to lift objects you normally would or even have a difficult time in moving your muscles. If you are experiencing this sensation, your doctor may need to test your vitamin D levels.
Bone Pain
The initial symptom of muscle weakness can lead to a condition known as osteomalacia, according to the Office of Dietary Supplements. This condition occurs in adults, who no longer experience bone growth, yet can experience bone loss. A vitamin D deficiency can slowly rob the bones of hard mineral, according to the Linus Pauling Institute. The result is bone pain in adults. While several factors are involved in developing the progressive bone condition osteoporosis, osteomalacia can be a contributing factor. Osteoporosis significantly increases the risk for bone fracture. Without enough vitamin D, the body may not be able to sustain healthy bones.
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