Vitamin D plays a significant role in helping your body absorb the mineral calcium from your stomach, and in helping your body use that calcium. Humans synthesize vitamin D3, or cholecalciferol, via the skin, when exposed to the sun's ultraviolet-B rays. The Pain Treatment Topics website notes clinical research indicating that vitamin D deficiency may result in muscle aches and pain, and that vitamin D3 supplements may help to prevent or treat the problem. Consult your doctor before taking any kind of supplement.
Vitamin D3
Vitamin D3 is a form of vitamin D. Sunlight is a natural source of vitamin D; 10 minutes per day in the sun will provide an adequate amount of vitamin D. Cod liver oil, fish and eggs are other good sources of vitamin D; milk and other foods are typically fortified with vitamin D. Vitamin D3 deficiency has been linked to chronic musculoskeletal pain in individuals with fibromyalgia and conditions such as osteoarthritis and rheumatic disorders.
Fibromyalgia
Fibromyalgia affects as many as 10 million people in the United States, according to the National Fibromyalgia Association, making it the second-most common ailment of the musculoskeletal system after osteoporosis. This chronic condition affects the muscles and joints all over the body; exhaustion, headache, insomnia anxiety and depression are commonly associated with fibromyalgia.
Study
Research published in the "Journal of the Pakistan Medical Association" in 2010 focused on vitamin D levels in 40 female patients diagnosed with fibromyalgia. Researchers defined vitamin D deficiency as less than 20 nanograms per milliliter of blood --- levels frequently seen in participants diagnosed with fibromyalgia and non-specific musculoskeletal pain. The scientists concluded that there is a need for broader study, including members of the population at large as well as patients experiencing musculoskeletal pain.
Precautions
Before taking vitamin D3 or any other supplements, consult your doctor and discuss any allergies you may have. Be sure to mention any history of electrolyte imbalance, heart or kidney disease or high levels of vitamin D in your blood. Also discuss any malabsorption condition --- the inability of the intestines to adequately absorb nutrients into the bloodstream, such as a specific carbohydrates, trace elements or fat. A vitamin D3 overdose may trigger weakness, headache, nausea and vomiting, along with dry mouth and severe stomach pain. Seek emergency medical care if you experience any of these symptoms while taking vitamin D3.
References
- MayoClinic.com; Vitamin D; April 1, 2011
- Drugs.com; Vitamin D3; Dec. 15, 2010
- My Fibro: Fibromyalgia Statistics
- MayoClinic.com; Fibromyalgia; Jan. 22, 2011
- "Journal of the Pakistan Medical Association"; Vitamin D Deficiency in Fibromyalgia; S.A. Bhatty, et.al.; November 2010
- Pain Treatment Topics: Vitamin D For Chronic Pain Syndromes
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