Vitamin D deficiency is linked to several developmental issues in the skeletal system as well as muscular and bone pain. This condition affects men and women in the same way, although some people may have mild symptoms associated with vitamin D deficiency. Adequate sunlight can reduce the risk of developing vitamin D deficiency in some people.
Identification
Vitamin D is naturally present in certain foods but can also be consumed through taking dietary supplements. Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin, meaning you don't have to take it too often, as the body supplies it and stores it regularly. Vitamin D can also be obtained through exposure to sunlight. Vitamin D is needed to help metabolize calcium in the body and also to increase the uptake of calcium. It is needed for healthy bones and to protect older adults from developing osteoporosis.
Dosing
The recommended daily allowance of vitamin D for both women and men are the same throughout life. Between the ages of 19 to 70 years both men and women are recommended to take up to 600 IU/15 mcg of vitamin D per day. The amount increases to 800 IU/20 mcg for people over the age of 70. These amounts are needed to maintain good bone health. The Office of Dietary Supplements state that the amounts are set based on minimal sun exposure.
Deficiency
Taking too much vitamin D -- hypervitaminosis D---can cause serious health risks; however, not taking enough vitamin D can also result in serious health problems. Vitamin D deficiency can cause a condition called rickets. This condition causes the bones to become soft and weak. Rickets affects men and women who live in climates with little sun exposure, people who have to stay indoors, people who are lactose intolerant or those who follow a strict vegetarian diet. Symptoms of rickets are bone pain or tenderness, dental deformities, impaired growth, progressive weakness, delays in formation of teeth, muscle cramps, bowlegs and pelvic deformities.
Treatments
Treatment consists of correcting the cause of the condition and minimizing the symptoms. Once the cause of the condition is known and treated, the deficiency can be cured. Treatment also consists of replacing phosphorous, vitamin D, and calcium. You can gain vitamin D through dietary means by consuming fatty fish, liver and processed milk. Pub Med states that moderate sunlight exposure is encouraged. You may also be directed to take vitamin D supplements.
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