Despite being abundant in sunlight, vitamin D deficiency is common in India. The vitamin is essential for calcium absorption by the gut that supports healthy bones and muscles. According to Indian studies, the prevalence of vitamin D deficiency is high, reaching 50-90%. This blog discusses the signs, causes, normal range, and tests for vitamin D deficiency to help you recognize the condition and talk to your doctor.
What Is Vitamin D Deficiency?
Vitamin D deficiency occurs when the body has a low level of vitamin D to support normal bodily functions. Insufficient vitamin D reduces the levels of absorbed calcium, which may lead to osteoporosis and other bone diseases. Severe deficiency causes soft bones in adults (osteomalacia) and children (rickets). There are two types of vitamin D, namely D2 found in plants and D3 made in the skin and present in animal products.
Why Is Vitamin D Deficiency Common in India?
While India has abundant sunlight, many factors reduce the time people are exposed to it:
- Limited exposure to sunlight due to covering the skin or avoiding going out during peak hours
- Indoor jobs and city life with increased air pollution
- Having a darker skin tone that reduces the production of vitamin D
- Obese individuals since this vitamin is stored in fatty tissues
- Lack of vitamin D in the diet and reduced calcium absorption
- Underlying health conditions such as coeliac disease or inflammatory bowel disease that reduce the absorption of nutrients in the gut
- Reduced exposure to sunlight due to clothing, working indoors, and preferring to stay at home
- Chronic diseases such as liver and kidney problems
- Medications for seizures can cause vitamin D deficiency. Refrain from taking any drugs that may harm the body without a doctor’s advice
Common Signs of Vitamin D Deficiency
A vitamin D deficiency may not show any symptoms for a prolonged period. However, the following may develop when the condition becomes severe:
- Bone and muscle pain due to weakened muscles and bones. It manifests as a dull ache in the lower back, hips, legs, or chest
- Extreme fatigue and tiredness
- Muscle cramps and spasms
- Bone disorders such as osteoporosis and fractures
- In children, the condition presents with delayed growth and soft bones that bow outward. In older people, it causes problems with walking
It is not possible to determine whether a person has a vitamin D deficiency based on the symptoms. Therefore, a blood test is necessary to confirm the diagnosis.
Vitamin D Normal Range/Level: What Is a Healthy Level?
Physicians use the 25-hydroxy vitamin D blood test to assess the level of vitamin D. The results are interpreted according to the NIH Office of Dietary Supplements:
| Vitamin D level | Interpretation | |
|---|---|---|
| Below 12 ng/mL | Deficiency risk | |
| 12 to 19 ng/mL | Potentially inadequate | |
| 20 ng/mL or above | Sufficient for most people | |
| Above 50 ng/mL | May be associated with adverse effects | |
Reference ranges vary depending on the institution, age, and health status. Therefore, the interpretation of the test results should be made by a physician.
Vitamin D Deficiency Test in India
- What it measures: The level of vitamin D in the blood
- How it is performed: A blood sample is taken from the arm
- Fasting: It is not necessary for the individual to fast before the test; however, certain laboratories require it. The Ayushman Vital package, for instance, requires 10-12 hours of fasting in addition to blood and urine tests .
- When to get tested: If a person has symptoms of vitamin D deficiency or problems with the bones, gut, kidneys, or liver. It is not advisable to test people with no symptoms
- Cost: The price ranges between ₹900 and ₹1600 depending on the laboratory and city of residence. It varies among different institutions and packages. However, The Ayushman Vital package costs ₹1999. Therefore, it is advisable to contact the laboratory and ask for the exact cost.
If a broader evaluation of health is needed, the Ayushman Vital test can be done to check the general well-being and examine the levels of vitamins alongside the function of the organs.
How To Build Healthy Levels of Vitamin D
The best way to increase the levels of vitamin D is to get enough sunlight without exposing the skin to the harmful UV rays. Doctors advise taking this supplement if the deficiency is severe. The appropriate dose should be selected based on the person’s age, level of deficiency, and any other underlying conditions.
Food is another effective way to boost the levels of this vitamin. Although it is challenging to increase vitamin D levels through food alone, a diet that includes eggs, fatty fish, and some types of milk and dairy products may improve the situation. In addition, one can take vitamin D supplements after consulting with a medical professional.
Treatment For Vitamin D Deficiency
Physicians treat this condition based on the level of deficiency and the individual’s overall health. They may prescribe supplements for a short time followed by daily doses to maintain the appropriate level. A blood test is taken to ensure that the treatment is working and that the levels are not too high. It is not advisable to take more than the recommended dose because it can increase the levels of calcium in the blood, which may lead to nausea, weakness, and kidney problems. The normal treatment for vitamin D deficiency in adults should not exceed 4,000 IU/d.
Vitamin D Deficiency in Children And The Elderly
- Children and teenagers: They require an adequate amount of vitamin D for the proper growth of their bones
- Adults: A significant portion of them stay inside buildings most of the day
- Pregnant women: The levels of vitamin D in India are particularly low in pregnant women. It is essential to speak with a doctor about the most appropriate course of treatment
- Older age: The skin becomes less efficient at producing vitamin D, and the recommended intake increases to 800 IU after the age of 70
Conclusion
Vitamin D deficiency is a widespread and serious condition in India that requires proper treatment. Paying more attention to the symptoms, such as bone and muscle pain or unexplained tiredness and fatigue, can help one seek timely medical care. However, it is essential to consult with a physician to determine whether a blood test is needed.
Frequently Asked Questions About Vitamin D Deficiency
What Is the Normal Vitamin D Level in India?
According to current guidelines, vitamin D levels of 20 ng/mL and above are deemed sufficient, while anything below 12 ng/mL is classified as a deficiency.
What Are the First Signs of Vitamin D Deficiency?
There may not be any noticeable signs of the condition. If they appear, they may include fatigue, muscle weakness, and bone pain.
Can You Have Vitamin D Deficiency Despite Getting Sunlight?
Exposure to the sun is not enough in all situations. A number of factors can contribute to vitamin D deficiency despite exposure to the sun, such as darker skin tones, covering the skin, and air pollution.
Is a Vitamin D Blood Test Done on an Empty Stomach?
This blood test does not require fasting; however, it is advisable to refrain from eating beforehand to obtain accurate results. A fasting blood test is taken when a person takes the Ayushman Vital package that also includes urine tests.
How Long Does It Take to Correct Vitamin D Deficiency?
Deficiency is treated based on the level detected in a blood test and the physician’s advice. A sufficient dose of this vitamin should be taken for a particular amount of time, usually for several months. The doctor will advise on the most appropriate time to retest.
Can Vitamin D Deficiency Cause Hair Loss?
There is no conclusive evidence that this deficiency is responsible for hair loss, and there are many other potential causes of this condition. It is best to speak with a physician who can test for the underlying reason.
How Often Should Vitamin D Levels Be Tested?
It is not advisable to test frequently if a person does not show any symptoms of deficiency. In addition, the test is not recommended for healthy people. A physician will advise on how often it should be taken if a person has been treated for the condition.
