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Know Why Your Body Needs Vitamin D

Our body needs regular proportions of Vitamin D to absorb calcium and phosphorus, along with aiding in bone growth. Risking your body to adequate quantities of Vitamin D means helping in the onset of bone abnormalities such as fragile bones – Osteoporosis and soft bones – Osteomalacia.

Are You Vitamin D Deficient?

Here are some symptoms of this vitamin that are observed in adults:

Stress fractures in hips, pelvic and leg regions.

Severe bone or muscle pain that makes it difficult to climb stairs or get up after sitting on the floor.

Fatigue, tiredness, aches and pains.

Doctors generally diagnose this deficiency by prescribing a blood test. Sometimes, they may even suggest you take a few X-rays to investigate overall bone health.

Sadly, most urban residents are Vitamin D deficient because:

We tend to spend humongous amounts of time indoors – either in our offices or at home.

Most of our tall skyscrapers block the natural sunlight.

Our cities experience dangerously high pollution levels.

How To ‘Up’ Vitamin D levels?

Thankfully, this vitamin (also called the Sunshine Vitamin) is naturally produced by our skin when we expose it to sunlight. Alternatively, you can even up your vitamin D levels by consuming certain foods and supplements.

Benefits Of Vitamin D

Next time you fret at the thought of spending some time in the basking glory of the morning sun, remember these benefits that this Vitamin could bless you with:

1. Fighting Depression

Every second person in our city today is fighting some form of depression. This vital vitamin helps to regulate mood and ward off depression. Most people who experience anxiety are known to have Vitamin D deficiency too.

2. Weight Loss

Many studies have proved that people who are trying to shed those extra pounds should add Vitamin D supplements to their diet. That’s because Vitamin D has an appetite-suppressing effect.

Along with this, Vitamin D is also known to help in treating autism, autoimmune disorders, neuromuscular diseases, etc.

3. Stronger Teeth

Good teeth make a good smile, no? Absolutely! And the most critical factor for our happy, healthy teeth is Vitamin D. As per research, people who lack vitamin D have problems with chipping teeth enamel, gaps, etc.

4. Mentally Sharp And Agile

Being forgetful, are you? If yes, then you need more Vitamin D. Vitamin D is known to boost memory function, information processing ability and much more. If you are unsure of your Vitamin D levels, speak to your doctor to be prescribed a blood test.

5. Boosts Overall Health

Vitamin D helps keep common colds, flu and germs away. Taking regular Vitamin D supplements can help to boost your immunity system to defend your body against infections and diseases.

6. Lean Abs

Want to lose weight but tired of trying different diets? You might want to start your day with a delicious glass of fresh orange juice (mind you, no juice box can replace fresh juice!). Orange juice is filled with the goodness of vitamin D. According to research, people who drink vitamin D-fortified orange juice; we’re able to lose weight successfully. However, stick to drinking one glass of juice a day.

7. Healthy Heart

Did you know lacking vitamin D or having deficient levels of vitamin D is a significant cause of heart trouble? If your family has a history of heart ailments, you might want to get your vitamin D levels checked ASAP! To avoid heart problems, ensure vitamin-D-rich foods are included in your diet.

8. Lustrous Hair

Growing old with a head full of hair without any bald patches is a dream come true. Vitamin D plays a significant role in determining good hair, i.e., it can help revive the hair follicles. This is true, especially in the case of male pattern baldness.

9. Risks of Cancer

Cancer is a deadly disease and unfortunately, we often overlook the nutritional status of the patient suffering from the disease. Lacking vitamin D is a common point in many cancer patients. It is best to get a test done if you have a family history of cancer.

Now, if you are thinking about how you should up your Vitamin D levels in this season when there is a dearth of sunlight, worry not! Here’s a list of essential food sources that help to increase Vitamin D levels naturally:

People with low levels of vitamin D may speak to their doctor about the nano vitamin D supplements. Your doctor can prescribe you the correct dose and duration for any vitamin D supplement that you may need.

Do not consume these in excess and be aware of a toxic condition called Hypervitaminosis D which is nothing but excessive Vitamin D in the body, a rare but serious condition.

People who suffer from Vitamin D toxicity generally experience:

Routine blood tests to check vitamin D levels can help you maintain them in a healthy range.

Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.

Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.

Ref

  1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK532266/#:~:text=Patients%20with%20a%20prolonged%20and,D%20deficiency%20leading%20to%20osteoporosis.
  2. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26204630/
  3. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2912737/
  4. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8483281/#:~:text=Excessive%20vitamin%20D%20causes%20marked,granulomatous%20diseases%20and%20lymphoproliferative%20malignancies.

Does Vitamin D Make You Stronger?

Our body produces Vitamin D as a response to sun exposure and through certain food items or supplements. You probably know that Vitamin D is crucial for bones because it is required for calcium and phosphorus absorption. Your body may show some signs following underlying Vitamin D deficiency, such as fragile bones, fatigue, etc.

Are you Vitamin D deficient?

Here are some signs and symptoms in adults:

Though these are vague symptoms, you have to consult a physician and he/she will verify this deficiency by prescribing a blood test and a few X-rays.

One study found that supplementing with 4,000 IU per day increased muscle fiber size after just 4 months, even without weight training. Not only that, but the most substantial gains were made in type II muscle fibers.

Dr. M.G. Kartheeka, MBBS, MD

What are the sources of Vitamin D?

The major and natural source of Vitamin D is Sun exposure, but that can be difficult depending on the season, time of day and other factors. Luckily, you don’t have to rely on the Sun to get Vitamin D. It can be found in many food items such as:

Vegetable sources of Vitamin D are:

Fortified food sources of Vitamin D are:

How can you increase your Vitamin D levels naturally?

Thankfully, this vitamin is naturally produced by our skin when we are exposed to sunlight. Also, you can balance your Vitamin D level by consuming certain food items and supplements.

What if you consume an excess of Vitamin D?

Vitamin D is extremely important for good health, but we all know anything in excess is harmful. High levels of Vitamin D in the human body can cause:

High blood levels of Vitamin D

Benefits of Vitamin D

The following are a few science-based benefits of Vitamin D:

Healthy Bones

Recurrent body pain may require Vitamin D. It is essential for maintaining healthy bones and teeth. Having healthy bones protects you from various health conditions, including rickets. Rickets is a disorder that causes weak and soft bones in children.

Immunity Booster

Vitamin D boosts your immunity and keeps you safe from the normal cold, flu and various respiratory conditions. Research shows that having healthy Vitamin D levels can protect you from COVID-19 infection by boosting your immunity.

Mental Health

Are you feeling depressed? No worries! You may need Vitamin D to cheer up your mood. Vitamin D is a ”sunshine” vitamin that brightens your mood. Most people who have anxiety disorders are known to have Vitamin D deficiency as a common symptom.

Vitamin D and Women’s Health

Women have a significant requirement for nutritious supplements, especially after menopause. Vitamin D has protective properties against breast cancers, heart risks, bone health, etc.

Pregnancy Requirements

Good news? But be aware of severe Vitamin D deficiency during pregnancy. Research shows that Vitamin D deficiency during pregnancy may lead to preeclampsia (complication during pregnancy) or pre-term delivery. If women don’t get enough Vitamin D during pregnancy, their child might develop neonatal hypocalcemia (not enough calcium in the blood) or may get rickets later in childhood.

Vitamin D in Children’s Health

Children and teens need 10 times more Vitamin D than the recommended dose. They need more Vitamin D to build stronger bones and keep them healthy.

Weight Loss

By adding Vitamin D to your diet, you can lose weight and also prevent diabetes. Many studies have confirmed that taking Vitamin D with calcium is successful for extra shredding. Researchers said that Vitamin D and calcium supplementation could suppress your hunger.

Risk of Cancers

Cancer is a deadly disease where patients may suffer from nutritional deficiencies. The lowest Vitamin D levels are associated with advanced cancers, specifically in the case of blood cancer and colon cancer. Vitamin D, especially when taken with calcium, might help to prevent certain types of cancers.

Improves Heart Health

Vitamin D helps to improve the health of your heart and reduces the risk of a heart attack. Moreover, Individuals with low Vitamin D levels are at a higher risk of developing issues related to diabetes and blood pressure.

Vitamin D is an essential nutrient for our body to build stronger bones and keep us healthy. Sometimes, A simple walk in the garden and a moderate amount of sunshine can help you stay healthy and fit. While you are outside soaking up rays, your body is busy consuming vitamin D. Hence, utilise a natural source of Vitamin D to keep yourself healthy.

Even then, if your vitamin D levels are on the lower side, you may opt for vitamin D supplements. Talk to your doctor about nano vitamin D supplements or other types of supplements and the ideal dose that should be taken. This will help you overcome vitamin D deficiency and reduce the risk of related complications.

Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.

Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.

Ref

  1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7427646/
  2. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK532266/#:~:text=Patients%20with%20a%20prolonged%20and,D%20deficiency%20leading%20to%20osteoporosis.
  3. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26204630/
  4. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2912737/
2

Frequently Asked Questions On Vitamin D Deficiency And How To Deal With It

There are diseases that are emerging in the 21st century and Vitamin D deficiency is one of them. There are a lot of misconceptions regarding Vitamin D deficiency and its diagnosis and management, this blog aims to clear all those.

Any disease can be better understood by asking questions and getting satisfying answers for the same. The following FAQs will help you understand Vitamin D deficiency and its treatment.

Q1. What is Vitamin D and why does our body need it?

Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin. Vitamin D promotes calcium absorption in the gut and maintains adequate serum, calcium and phosphate concentrations to enable normal mineralisation of bones. It is also needed for bone growth and bone remodelling. Without sufficient vitamin D, bones can become thin, brittle or misshapen. Vitamin D sufficiency prevents rickets in children and osteomalacia in adults. Together with calcium, vitamin D also helps protect older adults from osteoporosis.

Adding an over-the-counter vitamin D supplement can make improvements in just three to four months time. Vitamin D with a strength of 1000-2000 international units daily is the recommended dose for most adults.

Dr. M.G. Kartheeka, MBBS, MD

Q2. What are the symptoms of Vitamin D deficiency?

Vitamin D deficiency doesn’t always cause symptoms. When it does, some of the symptoms may include:

Q3. Who is prone to Vitamin D deficiency?

Breastfed infants

Vitamin D requirements cannot ordinarily be met by human milk alone. Exclusively and partially breastfed infants should be supplemented with 400 International Units (IU) of vitamin D per day.

Older adults

Older adults are at an increased risk of developing vitamin D deficiency in part because, as they age, their skin cannot synthesise vitamin D as efficiently, they are likely to spend more time indoors and they may have inadequate intakes of the vitamin.

People with limited sun exposure

Homebound individuals, women who wear long robes and head coverings for religious reasons and people with occupations that limit sun exposure are unlikely to obtain adequate vitamin D from sunlight. Because the extent and frequency of the use of sunscreen are unknown, the significance of the role that sunscreen may play in reducing vitamin D synthesis is unclear.

People with dark skin

Greater amounts of the pigment melanin in the epidermal layer result in darker skin and reduce the skin’s ability to produce vitamin D from sunlight.

People with inflammatory bowel disease and other conditions causing fat malabsorption

Because vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin, its absorption depends on the gut’s ability to absorb dietary fat. Individuals who have a reduced ability to absorb dietary fat might require vitamin D supplementation. People who are obese or who have undergone gastric bypass surgery.

A body mass index ≥ 30 is associated with lower serum 25(OH) D levels compared to non-obese individuals.

Q4. What are the sources of Vitamin D?

Foods that provide vitamin D include:

> Fatty fish, like tuna, mackerel and salmon

> Foods fortified with vitamin D, like some dairy products, orange juice, soy milk and cereals, cheese and egg yolks.

Q5. What is an active form of Vitamin D?

Vitamin D, as either D3 or D2, does not have significant biological activity. Rather, it must be metabolised within the body to the hormonally-active form known as 1, 25-dihydroxycholecalciferol. This transformation occurs in two steps:

Within the liver: Cholecalciferol is hydroxylated to 25-hydroxycholecalciferol by the enzyme 25-hydroxylase.

Within the kidney: 25-hydroxycholecalciferol serves as a substrate for 1-alpha-hydroxylase, yielding 1, 25-dihydroxycholecalciferol, the biologically active form.

Q6. What tests are done to diagnose vitamin D deficiency?

The most accurate way to measure how much vitamin D is in your body is the 25-hydroxy vitamin D blood test. A level of 20 nanograms (ng)/millilitre (mL) to 50 ng/mL is considered adequate for healthy people. A level of less than 12 ng/mL indicates vitamin D deficiency.

Q7. Do you have to fast for a vitamin D blood test?

Fasting is not necessary to obtain a vitamin D level; however, getting blood tests at the same time makes sense, reducing the burden of time on the patient.

Q8. What is the treatment for Vitamin D deficiency?

Treatment depends on the levels of vitamin D. For people with vitamin D deficiency, doctors may advise oral ergocalciferol (vitamin D2) at 60,000 IU per week for eight weeks. After vitamin D levels normalise, experts usually recommend maintenance doses of cholecalciferol (vitamin D3) at 800 to 1,000 IU per day from dietary and supplemental sources. Your doctor may also prescribe nano vitamin D supplements or injectable vitamin D for better absorption when needed.

Q9. What is Vitamin D toxicity?

Vitamin D toxicity should not be diagnosed solely on the basis of an elevated 25(OH)D level; instead, it should be recognised as a clinical syndrome of both hypervitaminosis D and hypercalcemia, in which hyperphosphatemia and hypercalciuria also commonly (although not always) occur. Patients with vitamin D toxicity could be present with clinical symptoms and signs of hypercalcemia (e.g. nausea, dehydration and constipation) and hypercalciuria (e.g., polyuria and kidney stones).

Q10. What are Rickets, Osteomalacia and Osteoporosis?

Rickets is a condition that affects bone development in children. It causes the bones to become soft and weak, which can lead to bone deformities.

Rickets in adults is known as osteomalacia or soft bones.

Osteoporosis is a bone disease. The name comes from the Latin for ‘porous bones’.The inside of a healthy bone has small spaces, like a honeycomb. Osteoporosis increases the size of these spaces such that the bone loses its strength and density. At the same time, the outside of the bone grows weaker and thinner.

Written By: Dr Vaibhav. B. Kasodekar

Dr Vaibhav. B. Kasodekar is a Consulting Orthopaedic Surgeon at Jaslok Hospital & Research Centre. He has secured degrees of M.S. (Ortho), DNB (Ortho), FCPS and D.Ortho and has a fellowship in joint replacement and arthroscopy surgery from North America and Singapore. He has been practising orthopaedics for the past several years and is one of the most sought doctors by renowned hospitals and medical institutions in the country.

Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.

Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.

Ref

  1. https://apps.who.int/nutrition/events/2015_vit_d_workshop_pregnantwomen_21to24Apr15/en/index.html
  2. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7427646/
  3. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK532266/#:~:text=Patients%20with%20a%20prolonged%20and,D%20deficiency%20leading%20to%20osteoporosis.
  4. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26204630/
  5. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2912737/

The Surprising Link Between Vitamin D And Diabetes

Diabetes is a metabolic disorder and uncontrolled diabetes makes one vulnerable to a number of health complications, such as kidney failure, heart attacks, stroke, blindness and high blood pressure. 

The rate of diabetes is fast growing amongst the Indian population and it is estimated that by the year 2030, around 79 million individuals in India1 may be affected by diabetes mellitus (a group of diseases affecting the body’s ability to utilise glucose).

Some long-term complications of diabetes are explained below:

Diabetic neuropathy (nerve damage)

Excess glucose damages the blood vessels that nourish the nerves. This is more common in the legs, which then results in symptoms like numbness, tingling, pain or burning that starts at the tip of the fingers or toes and slowly moves upwards. Nerve damage linked with digestion can cause issues like vomiting, nausea, constipation or erectile dysfunction, particularly in men.

Cardiovascular diseases

With diabetes, the risk of heart disease or stroke multiplies because diabetes ends up damaging the nerves or blood vessels that control the heart.

Diabetic nephropathy (Kidney damage)

The kidney contains several small blood vessel clusters known as glomeruli that do the work of filtering out the waste from the blood. Diabetes can upset this system.

Diabetic retinopathy (Eye damage)

One can become blind because diabetes can end up damaging the blood vessels of the eye.

Alzheimer’s & depression

Diabetes increases the risk of Alzheimer’s and depression.

Although the exact cause of diabetes hasn’t been established as of yet, did you know that numerous studies have found links between vitamin D deficiency and diabetes?

To find out more about how this works, keep reading below.

The link between VDD and Diabetes

Despite India being a tropical country, approximately 490 million have been found to be vitamin D deficient (VDD)2. What’s more surprising is that another study revealed that in India, around 32 % and 35% of people with type 2 diabetes were found to be vitamin d deficient and insufficient, respectively3. To understand this better, let’s try and see how insulin (a hormone secreted from a gland below the pancreas) functions within the body.

1. The pancreas releases insulin into the bloodstream

2. The insulin moves around, allowing sugar to enter cells

3. Insulin brings down the quantity of sugar in the bloodstream

4. As the blood sugar level dips, the secretion of insulin from the pancreas also stops

Another factor that regulates insulin secretion from the pancreas is the amount of calcium concentration in the blood and tissues. Calcium is very important for maintaining body homeostasis, which then controls glucose metabolism4. And since the presence of vitamin D in the body is crucial for better absorption and retention of calcium, we can assume that vitamin D deficiency can put you at greater risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

Vitamin D acts to reduce inflammation, which is a major process in inducing insulin resistance. 

So, if you are diabetic and also vitamin D deficient, you can watch out for the following symptoms:

Conclusion

Getting diagnosed with vitamin D deficiency along with diabetes can be a cause of worry for many. But with a doctor-recommended dietitian, this can be solved easily. Such a professional will create customised meal charts for you, including diabetic-friendly foods that also happen to be vitamin D enriched. They may ask you to incorporate vitamin D-fortified cereals, fish, milk, egg yolks and red meat into your meals. You may also be asked to develop a habit of spending 30-40 minutes out in the sun, such as jogging, brisk walking or cycling. This active lifestyle habit will not only help to up your vitamin D levels but will help to keep your weight under control and regulate insulin levels which is an important measure for diabetes management. After carefully evaluating the medications you are currently taking for diabetes, the doctor may also ask you to add nano vitamin D supplements (that ensure up to 90% absorption) in the dose most appropriate for your requirements. 

Disclaimer: The information included on this site is for educational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional. Because of unique individual needs, the reader should consult their physician to determine the appropriateness of the information for the reader’s situation.

Sources:

4

Vitamin D Deficiency: Causes, Symptoms And Treatment

Vitamin D deficiency is something you really don’t need in your life. A shortfall of Vitamin D can trigger some unpleasant consequences. The effects of this deficiency can easily be averted. But how? Let’s arm ourselves with the right information and then take some really simple measures.

Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin that is important for the regulation of phosphorus and calcium in the body. Vitamin D helps in the absorption and retention of these two minerals, which are helpful for healthy bone development. Vitamin D is one of the many nutrients that the body needs in order to stay mentally and physically healthy. 

Importance of Vitamin D in the body

Some interesting facts about the benefits of vitamin D to the body are mentioned below, which makes it important to avoid a deficiency:

Vitamin D deficiency is a global public health issue. About 1 billion people worldwide have vitamin D deficiency, while 50% of the population has vitamin D insufficiency. It is easily treatable with oral supplements.

Dr. M.G. Kartheeka, MBBS, MD

Causes of Deficiency

Vitamin D deficiency is said to occur when blood levels are below 20 ng/ml [1]. The causes are listed below:

Vitamin D is often referred to as the ‘sunshine Vitamin’ [2] because when sunlight comes in contact with the body, it undergoes a synthesis process. Therefore, reduced exposure to daily sunlight can also play an important cause in deficiency. Being employed in overnight shifts, Having a desk job and Staying indoors also reduce exposure to sunlight.

 Ageing:

A link between vitamin D and type 2 diabetes exists where people who have insulin resistance and a low level of vitamin D may have a higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes, adequate levels of vitamin D may help prevent and treat autoimmune diseases, including diabetes mellitus.

Dr. Ashish Bajaj, M.B.B.S., M.D

Symptoms of Vitamin D deficiency

Unfortunately, Vitamin D deficiency may not show symptoms for many years. Sometimes, there may not be any symptoms at all. Some commonly reported symptoms and signs of vitamin D deficiency are as follows:

Why should you undergo Lab Tests for Vitamin D?

Since most of the time, vitamin D deficiency can go without showing any symptoms and it is important to undergo regular lab tests to check if your levels are in line with the standard requirements. Your family physician or any general practitioner can especially ask you to undergo some tests if you have a history of chronic pain, falls or bone fractures that have occurred very easily. They may also prescribe a test to you if you are prone to staying indoors due to any medical condition or have a sedentary desk job.

A vitamin D test is essentially a blood test [3] wherein the healthcare professional takes a blood sample from one of the veins in the arms using a very small needle. A very small quantity of blood will be extracted into a vial or a test tube.

If your vitamin D levels are insufficient or just about borderline, you should consume more foods that are either enriched or fortified with vitamin D. You can also consider going out for early morning walks when the intensity of the sunlight is low. Talk to your doctor about vitamin D nano supplements. Ensure to also get your vitamin D levels checked from time to time if you have bone pain, muscle weakness, deformed bones, fractures and low bone density.

Disclaimer: The information included on this site is for educational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional. Because of unique individual needs, the reader should consult their physician to determine the appropriateness of the information for the reader’s situation.

Sources:

  1. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28459478/
  2. https://www.everydayhealth.com/vitamin-d/vitamin-d-health-benefits-what-it-can-cant-your-body/
  3. https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-929/vitamin-d
  4. https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/nutritionsource/vitamin-d/
  5. https://medlineplus.gov/lab-tests/vitamin-d-test/#:~:text=A%20vitamin%20D%20test%20is,D%20is%20causing%20your%20condition.
  6. https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/VitaminD-Consumer/#:~:text=Levels%20of%2050%20nmol%2FL,and%20might%20cause%20health%20problems.
3

11 Ways To Treat Thyroid At Home

The butterfly-shaped thyroid gland controls most of the metabolic processes of the body. Thermoregulation, hormonal function, and weight management are just some of the important functions of this gland.

Those who suffer from thyroid problems can look at home remedies to deal with the issue more comprehensively.

Before we get into home remedies we need to cover the basic differences between hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism based on their symptoms: 

HypothyroidismHyperthyroidism
Feeling tiredFeeling tired
Hair LossHair Loss
Increased weightSudden weight gain or loss
Trouble sleepingTrouble sleeping
Sensitivity to coldSensitivity to heat
ConstipationDiarrhoea
Sweating lessSweating more
Decreased heart rateFast and irregular heart rate
Brittle, easily chipped nailsThickened, flaky nails
Depression, easily irritableAnxiety
Puffy facePuffy eyes
Joint and muscle painsMuscle weakness
Feeling sluggish or slow

Based on these differences you may get an idea of which form of thyroid issue you have but always check with your doctor who will recommend a thyroid test for a clear diagnosis.

Did you know?

Home Remedies For Thyroid Problems

People suffering from hypothyroidism should avoid excessive consumption of cruciferous vegetables(cabbage, broccoli) and soy products, these foods contain goitrogens which might interfere with the production of thyroxine hormone.

Dr. Nikhil Yadav, MBBS MD, CCEBDM

1. Coconut Oil

Image Source: freepik.com

Coconut oil has medium-chain fatty acids that help in better functioning of the thyroid gland. Coconut oil, specifically when taken in a non-heated form, helps lose weight, increases metabolism and balances body temperature.

Unlike other types of oils, coconut oil has a high content of saturated fat (healthy). With the right combination of exercise and a properly balanced diet, coconut oil could be good for thyroid glands.
Recipe tip: Use coconut oil for your regular cooking once in a while, or switch to it completely if you like the taste  

2. Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar helps in the balanced production and expression of hormones. It improves metabolism and helps to alkalize the body environment.

Apple cider vinegar helps regulate body fats, wash away toxins from the body, and absorption of nutrients. Apple cider vinegar can be added to water along with honey and can be taken every morning,
Recipe tip: Add it to warm water to make atonic, or add it to your herbal tea of choice. For sore throats try apple cider vinegar and honey in warm water, it might give some relief.

3. Ginger

Image Source: freepik.com

This is one of the easiest home remedies for thyroid as it is easily available. Ginger is rich in essential minerals like potassium and magnesium and helps combat inflammation, one of the primary causes of thyroid issues. It is easiest to have ginger tea.

It can also be used as an essential oil. If ginger is mixed with a carrier oil (coconut oil, for example) it can be applied to the body. Ginger oil can also be used via essential oil diffusers.
Recipe tip: Throw in a small amount of thinly sliced ginger to your curries and stir-frys, or add it to your favourite baked items like cookies and pastries.  

4. Vitamins B

Image Source: freepik.com

Vitamins help to fight the underlying causes of thyroid problems. Vitamins from the ‘B’ family are essential for proper thyroid function. Vitamin B12 is especially instrumental in helping people with hypothyroidism. Including eggs, meat, fish, legumes, milk, and nut in daily diet might help with a steady supply of Vitamin B.

Since the diet may not be able to meet the daily requirements, taking supplements will help.
Recipe tip: Make a smoothie from almond milk, a dash of pineapple juice, sliced banana and pineapple, a tablespoon of flaxseeds and enjoy!  

5. Vitamin D

The Deficiency of vitamin D can lead to thyroid problems. Since the body can produce it only when exposed to the sun, ensure that you get a minimum of 15 minutes of sunlight daily. This will also lead to better calcium absorption and good immunity.

  Some foods that are rich in Vitamin D are fatty fishes like salmon and mackerel, dairy products, orange juice, and egg yolks. If Vitamin D levels in the body are very low, supplements will be necessary. However, one must be cautious and consult with a doctor about dosage because too much vitamin in the body can be harmful.
Recipe tip: Bake a salmon fillet with honey glazing, serve with sauteed asparagus, alternatively make a side dish of lentils for a warm meal.    

Also Read: 8 Most Effective Foods To Fight Thyroid!

6. Almonds

Most nuts are beneficial to the body in some way or the other. Almonds are best suited for proper thyroid expression. They are a good source of protein, fibre, and minerals.

Almonds have selenium which is a thyroid healthy nutrient. It is also very rich in magnesium that can keep the thyroid gland working very smoothly.
Recipe tip: Eat half a handful of almonds as a snack (works as a pre or post-workout snack too!), or add it to your cakes and smoothies.    

7. Dairy Products

Milk, cheese, and yoghurt are very beneficial for the thyroid as they are high in iodine, the mineral that is essential for proper thyroid functioning. Consuming dairy products will also help with increasing vitamin levels which in turn will help with thyroid problems.
Recipe tip: Try out yoghurt and other dairy products like cream cheese, but be careful if you have lactose intolerance.      

8. Beans

Beans are a powerhouse of nutrition. They are rich in fibre, protein, essential minerals and vitamins. Beans are rich in antioxidants and complex carbohydrates. Since beans are also very high in fibre, it helps with constipation which is a common side effect of hypothyroidism.

Recipe tip: Sprinkle flaxseeds onto your bread spreads or your breakfast cereal for added crunch. 

9. Iodine Supplements

Another thing that works in improper thyroid functioning is taking iodine supplements. This becomes more important for those who are vegetarians. These supplements restore the balance of iodine in the body and help with thyroid health.

10. Seaweed

Seaweed is a type of very large algae that grow in saltwater and marshes, it typically contains high to very high concentrations of iodine. Iodine is an essential mineral required by the pituitary gland for the formation of thyroid hormones.

However, please note, for both seaweed and iodine supplements – excessive amounts of iodine may itself result in poor thyroid function and goitre, please check with your doctor before trying either of these out. 

11. Regular Exercise

Seaweed is a type of very large algae that grow in saltwater and marshes, it typically contains high to very high concentrations of iodine. Iodine is an essential mineral required by the pituitary gland for the formation of thyroid hormones.

However, please note, for both seaweed and iodine supplements – excessive amounts of iodine may itself result in poor thyroid function and goitre, please check with your doctor before trying either of these out.

Discipline and focus is the key to good thyroid health.

Also Read: Is Cottage Cheese Good for You? Unraveling the Potential Health Benefits According to Science

FAQs

Q1. What problems can the thyroid cause?

Over time, if hypothyroidism is left untreated, it can cause a number of health problems, such as obesity, joint pain, infertility and heart disease.

Q2. What are the warning signs of thyroid?

Weight gain or difficulty losing weight, constipation, dry skin, hair thinning, fatigue, enlarged thyroid and hoarse feeling in your throat are some of the major warning signs for thyroid.

Q3. Is thyroid a serious problem?

If you have a thyroid problem that is not treated in time, serious health complications can arise. An overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism) can lead to a number of problems including eye problems, such as bulging eyes, blurred or double vision or even vision loss in the future.

Read More: 8 Best Foods for Thyroid to Include in Your Diet

Disclaimer: The information provided here is for  educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.

Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.

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Know Why Does Your Body Need Vitamin D


Our body needs regular proportions of Vitamin D to absorb calcium and phosphorus along with aiding in bone growth. Risking your body to adequate quantities of Vitamin D means helping in the onset of bone abnormalities such as fragile bones – Osteoporosis and soft bones – Osteomalacia.

Are You Vitamin D Deficient?

Here are some symptoms of this vitamin that are observed in adults:

Doctors generally diagnose this deficiency by prescribing a blood test. Sometimes, they may even suggest you take a few X-rays to investigate overall bone health.

Sadly, most urban residents are Vitamin D deficient because:

How To ‘Up’ Vitamin D levels?

Thankfully, this vitamin (also called the Sunshine Vitamin) is naturally produced by our skin when we expose it to sunlight. Alternatively, you can even up your vitamin D levels by consuming certain foods and supplements.

Benefits Of Vitamin D

Next time you fret at the thought of spending some time in the basking glory of the morning sun, remember these benefits that this Vitamin could bless you with:

1. Fighting Depression

Every second person in our city today is fighting some form of depression. This vital vitamin helps to regulate mood and wards off depression. Most people who experience anxiety are known to have Vitamin D deficient too.

2. Weight Loss

Many studies have proved that people who are trying to shed those extra pounds should add Vitamin D supplements to their diet. That’s because Vitamin D has an appetite-suppressing effect.

Along with this, Vitamin D is also known to help in treating autism, autoimmune disorders, and neuromuscular diseases, etc.

3. Stronger Teeth

Good teeth make a good smile, no? Absolutely! And the most critical factor for our happy, healthy teeth is Vitamin D. As per research, people who lack vitamin D have problems with chipping teeth enamel, gaps, etc.

4. Mentally Sharp And Agile

Being forgetful, are you? If yes, then you need more Vitamin D. Vitamin D is known to boost memory function, information processing ability, and much more. If you are unsure of your Vitamin D levels, speak to your doctor to be prescribed a blood test.

5. Boosts Overall Health

Vitamin D helps keep common colds, flu, and germs away. Taking regular Vitamin D supplements can help to boost your immunity system to defend your body against infections and diseases.

6. Lean Abs

Want to lose weight but tired of trying different diets? You might want to start your day with a delicious glass of fresh orange juice (mind you, no juice box can replace fresh juice!). Orange juice is filled with the goodness of vitamin D. According to research people who drink vitamin D-fortified orange juice; are able to lose weight successfully. However, stick to drinking one glass of juice a day.

7. Healthy Heart

Did you know lacking vitamin D or having deficient levels of vitamin D is a significant cause of heart trouble? If your family has a history of heart ailments, you might want to get your vitamin D levels checked ASAP! To avoid heart problems, ensure vitamin-D-rich foods are included in your diet.

8. Lustrious Hair

Growing old with a head full of hair without any bald patches is a dream come true. Vitamin D plays a significant role in determining good hair, i.e., it can help revive the hair follicles. This is true, especially in the case of male pattern baldness.

9. Risks of Cancer

Cancer is a deadly disease and unfortunately, we often overlook the nutritional status of the patient suffering from the disease. Lacking vitamin D is a common point in all cancer patients. It is best to get a test done if you have a family history of cancer.

Also Read: Benefits of Mushroom Coffee: A Complete Research-Based Guide

Conclusion

Now, if you are thinking about how should you up to your Vitamin D levels in this season when there is a dearth of sunlight, worry not! Here’s a list of essential food sources that help to increase Vitamin D levels naturally:

However, be aware of a toxic condition called Hypervitaminosis D which is nothing but excessive Vitamin D in the body, a rare but serious condition.

People who suffer Vitamin D toxicity generally experience:

Also read: Chamoy Benefits: A Research-Backed Health And Flavour Guide

Disclaimer: The information included at this site is for educational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional. Because of unique individual needs, the reader should consult their physician to determine the appropriateness of the information for the reader’s situation

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