Easy at-home screening for Vitamin D deficiency

Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin, and without sufficient levels, bones can become thin, brittle, or misshapen. The recommended amount of Vitamin D is not generally obtained by diet, but it can be made up for by exposure to sunlight and supplementation. Low Vitamin D levels can cause fatigue, hair loss, muscle pain, and mood changes. Vitamin D works to help the body regulate and avoid these symptoms.

Vitamin D deficiency generally affects older populations of people who do not get sufficient sun exposure or do not consume fortified foods. Gastrointestinal issues such as celiac disease can prevent Vitamin D from being absorbed by the intestines. The good news is that Vitamin D levels can be increased and within 9-12 months, most patients can return to appropriate levels.

Vitamin D toxicity, also known as hypervitaminosis D, is the opposite of deficiency — occurring when you have excessive levels of the vitamin in your system. Though rare, this can cause serious health issues due to a buildup of calcium in the blood. Resulting symptoms can include nausea, vomiting, high frequency of urination, and a general feeling of weakness. Left untreated, dangerously high levels of Vitamin D can also lead to kidney and bone issues like calcium stones.

Deficiency in vitamin D is associated with increased susceptibility to infection, so catching it early and making the necessary adjustments to lifestyle and nutrition can have strong preventative impact. Vitamin D levels have also been shown to strengthen your immune system, helping to project you from a number of common illnesses.