Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin that is derived from the sun and dietary sources such as eggs, fish and milk that has been fortified with vitamin D. Vitamin D, according to the Mayo Clinic's website, maintains normal levels of calcium and phosphorus in the body. A deficiency of vitamin D can lead to rickets, osteoporosis and osteomalacia.
Celiac Disease
Celiac disease is an autoimmune and digestive disorder in which the immune system attacks gluten, a protein found in grains, reports the Cleveland Clinic. The immune system sends out the message to form antibodies to gluten. These antibodies attack the lining of the intestinal tract and cause intestinal inflammation and damage to the villi, the tiny hair-like structures that absorb nutrients.
Possible symptoms of celiac disease include digestive problems, anemia, muscle cramps and seizures. Celiac disease can cause osteoporosis, which is a disease that weakens bones due to the lack of calcium and vitamin D absorption in the body.
Treatment options include a gluten-free diet and, in the case of irreparable damage to the villi causing malnourishment, intravenous nutritional supplements may be required.
Crohn's Disease
Crohn's disease is an inflammation of the digestive tract that is most common between the ages of 20 and 30, according to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse. In addition, Crohn's disease is noted to run in families, with as many as 20 percent having a family history of some type of inflammatory bowel disease.
Possible complications of Crohn's disease include intestinal ulcers and abscesses that can prevent the absorption of protein and vitamins. Treatment goals include extra vitamin and mineral support through high-calorie supplements to make up the loss of nutritional absorption. Surgery to remove the damaged part of the intestine may be necessary.
Lactose Intolerance
Lactose intolerance, which is the inability to digest lactose, occurs when there is not enough of the lactase enzyme produced by the small intestine. Lactose is a type of sugar in dairy products. Lactose intolerance can begin at any age, but usually occurs by age 20, according to MedlinePlus, and affects about 30 million American adults.
Symptoms of lactose intolerance include diarrhea, weight loss and malnutrition. Symptoms often appear with the intake of dairy products and may be relieved by avoiding milk and other dairy items. A lack of adequate dairy intake can cause a deficiency in vitamin D, calcium and protein.
Treatment options include adding lactase enzymes to milk to make dairy products tolerable and provide the needed calcium and vitamin D for the body.
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