Vitamin D is an essential nutrient. It supports bone and nail health. It also plays a vital role in insulin production and immunity. A vitamin D deficiency can negatively impact health and increase disease risk.
The body does not produce vitamin D naturally, so it’s essential to source it from food and sunlight. If you’re not getting enough vitamin D from these sources, supplements may help. They can fortify your body, protecting it from disease and serious medical conditions.
What Does Vitamin D Do in the Body?
Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin found in sunlight and certain foods. It is essential to calcium absorption helping maintain adequate calcium and phosphate concentrations to prevent muscle spasms and cramps. It also supports bone, tooth, and nail health.
The nutrient also boosts immunity helping reduce inflammation and supporting cell growth. It has antimicrobial and antibiotic properties that protect against pathogens. It also suppresses immune responses related to autoimmune conditions.
What are the Signs of a Vitamin D Deficiency?
A Vitamin D deficiency may occur because you don’t get enough of the nutrient through sunlight and diet. It may also be the side effects of certain medications or medical conditions.
You may have a vitamin D deficiency and not realize it. Common symptoms include:
- Bone and muscle pain
- Increased sensitivity to pain
- A pins and needles sensation in the extremities
- Frequent broken bones
- Muscle weakness in the upper arms and thighs
- Muscle twitches, tremors, and spasms
What Does Vitamin D Deficiency Look Like in Nails?
A vitamin D deficiency can also affect nails. Calcium contributes to healthy, strong nails. So what does vitamin D deficiency look like in nails? Here are some common symptoms.
- Soft nails
- Longitudinal Melanonychia: A condition that causes brown, black, or gray bands on the nail bed
- Pitted Nails: Dimples or dents in the nail beds
How to Treat a Vitamin D Deficiency
If you think you may have a vitamin D deficiency due to limited intake, you may need to add supplements to your diet. Here are some quality products that may help you overcome your deficiency.
- Deva Nutrition Vegan Hair Nails & Skin: This product supports hair, nail, and skin health with Vitamin D, biotin, and other plant-based nutrients.
- Carlson Labs Super Daily D3 Vitamin D Liquid: This supplement features a highly concentrated form of Vitamin D that supports tooth and bone health, immune function, cardiovascular and muscular health, and improved mood.
- Nature’s Way Vitamin D3 Max 125 Mcg: Nature’s Way offers a vitamin D supplement that supports bones and teeth, cell growth, and immunity.
- Klaire Labs Vitamin C3 125 Mcg: This high potency vitamin D product supports healthy bones and teeth, and normal body cell growth.
Vitamin D is a vital nutrient that supports calcium production and immunity. A deficiency can impact your functionality and general health. You must also consider, what does vitamin D deficiency look like in nails? What will you do to ensure you get enough vitamin D in your diet?
FAQs
What is the ideal Vitamin D dosage?
The recommended daily amount of vitamin D for children up to one-year-old is 400 internal units (IU), 600 IU for people 1 to 70, and 800 IU for people 70 and older.
What is the fastest way to cure a vitamin D deficiency?
If you have severe symptoms, your doctor may prescribe an extra-strength vitamin D supplement (up to 50,000 IU) or vitamin D injections.
How long does it take to correct a vitamin D deficiency with supplements?
A deficiency will typically correct itself within 6-8 weeks. However, your doctor may recommend you continue taking supplements beyond that time to ensure your vitamin D levels don’t dip back down.
