Vitamin D is an important and often overlooked factor in overall health, immune system function, and a feeling of overall well-being.
The "sunshine vitamin," vitamin D is produced by the body in response to sunlight. It also occurs naturally in some foods - including fatty fish, fish liver oils, and egg yolks. It also is part of fortified dairy and grain products. However, especially as adults, we tend to be somewhat lacking in dietary sources of vitamin D and generally limit our sun exposure due to the risk of skin malignancies.
Symptoms and Health Risks of Vitamin D Deficiency
Symptoms may include bone pain, muscle weakness and depressed mood or decreased sense of well-being. However, the symptoms are often subtle and go mostly unnoticed. Although most people are asymptomatic, vitamin D deficiency poses serious health risks. Low levels of the vitamin have been associated with:
- Increased risk of death from cardiovascular disease
- Decreased cognitive function in older adults
- Severe asthma in children
- Cancer
- Depression
- May play a role in prevention and treatment of several common conditions such as diabetes and high blood pressure.
I urge you to schedule an appointment if you have any of the above symptoms or at risk of developing any of the above conditions. Also, I routinely check levels at your yearly full physical exam.
Click on the link below or call to set up an appointment.
In Good Health,
James Criner, MD
www.DoctorCriner.com
770-813-9250
