Vitamin D deficiency Image Credit source: Getty Images
During cold weather, many people feel more tired, weak and lack of energy than usual. A major reason behind this could be deficiency of Vitamin D. Vitamin D plays an essential role in keeping bones strong in the body, supporting the immune system and helping muscles function properly. It helps the body to absorb calcium, which maintains the strength of bones and teeth. Apart from this, it is also helpful in keeping mood and energy level balanced.
vitamin D Deficiency can be due to many reasons, of which less exposure to sunlight is the main reason. Additionally, spending more time indoors in winter, pollution, obesity, aging and lack of nutrition also reduce its levels. Some medicines can also affect the absorption of vitamin D. Its symptoms appear gradually, such as constant fatigue, muscle pain, bone weakness, frequent colds, hair fall and mood swings. Some people feel stiffness in the body while waking up in the morning and also feel lethargic throughout the day. If the deficiency continues for a long time, the bones start becoming weak and the risk of fracture may increase.
Why does Vitamin D deficiency occur in winter? Is constant fatigue a symptom of its deficiency?
Dr. Subhash Giri in the Department of Medicine at RML Hospital, Delhi. It is said that in winter the sunlight comes out late and the intensity of the sunlight is also less. People stay indoors most of the time to avoid cold, due to which the body does not get adequate sun exposure. Vitamin D is mainly produced from sunlight, hence its level starts falling rapidly in cold. Apart from this, due to wearing thick clothes, pollution and clouds, sunlight does not reach the skin completely.
Dr. Subhash Giri Told that constant fatigue is one of the main symptoms of Vitamin D deficiency. When this vitamin is deficient in the body, the muscles become weak and the energy level is affected. Due to this, the person may feel lethargy, heaviness and weakness throughout the day. If such symptoms increase in cold, then it is important to get checked by a doctor.
How to protect?
Sit in mild morning sunlight for 15 to 20 minutes.
Include eggs, milk, curd, mushrooms and fortified foods in your diet.
If necessary, consult your doctor for Vitamin D supplement.
Do regular light exercise.
Keep weight under control.
Pay special attention to the sunbathing habits of children and the elderly.