Low Vitamin D3 Levels

Vitamin D3, also called cholecalciferol, is synthesized in your skin when you are exposed to the ultraviolet-B, or UVB, rays from the sun. Some foods are also fortified with vitamin D3. All it takes is 10 minutes per day of direct sunlight to prevent vitamin D3 deficiencies. Vitamin D3 helps the body absorb calcium, which is used by the body. Vitamin D3 deficiency is linked to various health risk factors and can cause serious health conditions. Before taking any supplements, consult with your doctor or health care provider.

Rickets

Rickets can be caused by vitamin D3 deficiency. It is commonly seen in children and can result in skeletal deformities. Rickets in adults leads to weak bones and muscular weakness. Other rickets symptoms caused by low vitamin D3 levels include bone fractures, breathing problems, pneumonia, seizures and dental defects.

Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is a disease where your bones became weak and can break easily. Hip, spine and wrist fractures are common problems in people who have osteoporosis. Low vitamin D3 levels can be a contributing factor to osteoporosis and increase bone fracture risk in adults, according to M.F. Holick in a study published in the 2008 issue of "Advances in Experimental Medicine and Biology."

Hypertension

Low vitamin D3 levels can be a contributory cause of high blood pressure, according to a study headed by A.K. Gupta published in the March 2011 issue of "Diabetes Care." Healthy adults were studied during 2001 to 2006 for the effects of low vitamin D levels. The study found there might be a link between low vitamin D levels and an elevated risk for hypertension and early stage diabetes. Vitamin D3 is converted in the liver and kidneys into a metabolite, which may have an affect on enzymes produced by your kidneys that affect your blood pressure.

Diabetes

Low levels of vitamin D3 may increase your risk for type 2 diabetes, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. A study headed by Z. Maghbooli published in the January 2008 issue of "Diabetes Metabolism Research and Reviews" screened 741 pregnant women and found a positive correlation between low vitamin D3 levels and insulin resistance. Spending a few minutes each in the sun each day can help increase your vitamin D3 levels and reduce your risk of type 2 diabetes.

Seasonal Affected Disorder

Depression has also been linked to low levels of vitamin D3. Regions with high amounts of rain and overcast weather have a higher number of people with mild depression caused by lack of sunshine. This disorder is called Seasonal Affected Disorder, or SAD, and is easily treated with vitamin D3 supplements, photo therapy or exposure to some sunshine.