1. Frequent illness
Vitamin D plays a key role in supporting the immune system, equipping our bodies to effectively fight viruses and bacteria. Vitamin D deficiency can lead to a weakened immune response, making people more susceptible to infection and illness.
2. Mood changes or depression
Vitamin D plays an important role in regulating mood. According to research from the National Institutes of Health (USA), low vitamin D levels are associated with more symptoms of anxiety and depression.
3. Feeling tired
Another sign that you're not getting enough vitamin D is feeling tired and sluggish all the time, as vitamin D is involved in energy production in the body.
This is different from fatigue caused by a busy schedule or not getting enough sleep. If you are deficient in vitamin D, you may feel constantly tired or struggle to get through the workday due to lack of energy despite being well-rested.
4. Muscle pain
This is a sign that many people may not think of, but if you have muscle pain that is not related to your exercise routine or a persistent feeling of muscle weakness, it could be due to a vitamin D deficiency. Research shows that vitamin D is essential for muscle strength, and the vitamin has even been found to help reduce the risk of falls due to muscle weakness in older adults.
5. Reduced bone health
Vitamin D plays an important role in calcium absorption, which is essential for maintaining strong bones. Therefore, vitamin D deficiency can negatively affect bone health, leading to reduced bone density, making you more susceptible to fractures and injuries.