Low levels of Vitamin D3 are common and can even prevent flu
Mortality
Vitamin D3 supplementation has been tentatively found to lead to a reduced risk of death in the elderly.
Bone health
For older people with osteoporosis, taking vitamin D3 with calcium may help prevent hip fractures and can reduce fracture risk. It also can help with joint pain and stiffness.
Vitamin D3 deficiency causes osteomalacia (called rickets when it occurs in children). It can also prevent loose teeth and tooth decay.
Athletes who are vitamin D deficient are at an increased risk of stress fractures and/or major breaks, particularly those engaging in contact sports.
Cancer
Some evidence suggests low vitamin D may be associated with a worse outcome for some cancers.
Depression
People living in the northern hemisphere during winter with fewer sunny hours per day can be prone to depression because of low vitamin D3 levels.
Cognition and dementia
People with low vitamin D3 levels have a higher risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease.
Immune system (Infectious disease)
Deficiency has been linked to increased risk of viral infections like colds, flu and HIV. Low levels of vitamin D appear to be a risk factor for tuberculosis.
People with the lowest vitamin D levels are having significantly more colds or cases of the flu. Dr. Adit Ginde stated: “The findings of our study support an important role for vitamin D in prevention of common respiratory infections, such as colds and the flu. Individuals with common lung diseases, such as asthma or emphysema, may be particularly susceptible to respiratory infections from vitamin D deficiency.”
Autoimmune disease
Low Vitamin D levels can be associated with autoimmune diseases like multiple sclerosis and autoimmune thyroid disease.
Pregnancy
Low levels of vitamin D in pregnancy can be associated with gestational diabetes, pre-eclampsia, and small infants.
Insulin resistance
Low levels of vitamin D can also be associated with insulin resistance.
Excessive perspiration
Excessive perspiration can also be associated with low levels of vitamin D.
Cancer
Vitamin D status could affect cancer risk. Biological and mechanistic bases indicate that vitamin D plays a role in the prevention of colon, prostate, and breast cancers.
Have an annual blood test for vitamin D3 and supplement if needed.
References
https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/VitaminD-HealthProfessional/#h7
