D’lightful Living: Things You Should Know About Vitamin D

As we transition to fall, the days get shorter and many of us miss the delicacy of the summer sun. Less sun exposure during the winter months can impact various aspects of health, including your vitamin D levels. It is important to get your annual women’s wellness visit to assess your vitamin D levels, that way you can consider adding Vitamin D rich foods to your diet, spending more time in the sun (with sunscreen of course), or discuss with your provider about vitamin D supplementation. Below are a few reasons to care about your Vitamin D levels.¹

The Main Differences

1. Vitamin D can help with osteoporosis, or weak bones. Vitamin D and calcium are needed for protecting bone health. This is especially true for menopausal women where osteoporosis is common.
   
2. Vitamin D can impact your brain health. Low vitamin D levels are associated with increased risk of depression. Low vitamin D levels have also been associated with the development of multiple sclerosis, a neurological disorder that impacts the central nervous system. 
   
3. Vitamin D is important for regulating blood sugar levels. Vitamin D can help ensure your blood sugar is present at appropriate levels.  When unable to maintain the correct amount, this can lead to high blood sugar known as diabetes.

Vitamin D is used in various bodily processes and is essential for maintaining good health. Certain individuals, including those with darker complexion and older adults, are at higher risk of vitamin D deficiency. Symptoms of low vitamin D levels include muscle pain, bone pain, sensation of “pins and needles” throughout the body, among many other symptoms. However, increasing your diet with vitamin D rich foods (milk, orange juice, cereal, fatty fishes, etc.) and prescribed Vitamin D supplements under the direction of a provider can raise your vitamin level. Consider getting your Vitamin D levels checked with us at Trust Women’s Healthcare – schedule here!

1. National Institutes of Health, Office of Dietary Supplements (2024). “Vitamin D Fact Sheet for Health Professionals”. https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/VitaminD-HealthProfessional/