Overview
Vitamin D helps the body absorb calcium and keep bones and muscles strong, and the body makes it mainly from sunlight on the skin. Despite India's abundant sun, deficiency is very common because of indoor lifestyles, covering the skin, air pollution and darker skin tones. It often causes vague tiredness, bone and muscle aches, and over time weakens the bones. It is easily treated with sensible sun exposure, diet and supplements once diagnosed.
Symptoms
- Tiredness and general low energy
- Aching bones and muscles
- Muscle weakness and cramps
- Frequent minor illnesses
- Low mood in some people
When to see a doctor
See a doctor for lasting tiredness with bone or muscle aches so vitamin D can be checked and corrected safely.
Causes
Too little sunlight on the skin, indoor lifestyles, covering up, air pollution, darker skin, and a diet low in vitamin D.