Vitamin D is important for the formation, growth and repair of bones, enhanced function of the immune system and muscle strength. The most common sources of vitamin D are fortified cereal and dairy products, supplements and sunlight. Deficiencies in vitamin D causes significant health problems, including muscle and bone pain and weakness.
Thin, Brittle Bones
Lack of vitamin D leads to thin, brittle bones that are weak, easily fractured and may even become deformed. Vitamin D encourages the active absorption of calcium and phosphorus in your body, assisting in the formation of strong, healthy bones.
Muscle Weakness and Bone Pain
Vitamin D deficiency puts people at risk for osteomalacia, or softening of the bones. According to the MayoClinic.com, this condition results from a shortcoming in the process of building bones. Symptoms of osteomalacia include muscle weakness and consistent bone pain. Treatment involves replenishing depleted vitamin D levels in the body.
Skeletal Deformities
Lack of vitamin D in the diet can also lead to rickets, the softening and weakening of the bones. Usually appearing in children, symptoms of vitamin D-induced rickets include delayed growth, muscle weakness and skeletal deformities such as bowed legs, curved spine and a prominent breast bone.
Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
Symptoms of chronic fatigue syndrome, or CFS, includes unexplained tiredness and fatigue intense enough to prevent daily activities; this condition may occur as a result of vitamin D deficiency. Vitamin D deficiency is usually a result of a deficiency of sunlight or vitamin D food sources. MayoClinc.com reports that most conditions caused by this deficiency, including CFS, can be addressed by replenishing low levels of vitamin D. Vitamin D levels can be replaced through oral supplementation over several months. Severe cases of deficiency may require intravenous injections of vitamin D.
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