Chandigarh February 25 (Punjab Khabarnama Bureau): The best source of vitamin D is adequate sun exposure. However, if you cannot get sufficient sunlight or obtain enough vitamin D from your diet and daily activities, supplements can help. But what if you cannot meet your vitamin D requirements even after taking supplements? This, say experts, might indicate an underlying problem.
Dr Manjusha Agarwal, senior consultant, internal medicine, Gleneagles Hospital Parel Mumbai, said factors like gut health, obesity, kidney problems, or liver diseases can significantly affect how your body processes vitamin D.
“Vitamin D absorption depends on the gut’s ability to absorb dietary fats. Conditions that impair fat absorption, such as liver disease, cystic fibrosis, celiac disease, ulcerative colitis, or Crohn’s disease, can interfere with vitamin D uptake,” added Dr Nandini Sarwate, chief nutritional advisor, Utopian Drinks.
Vitamin D needs healthy fats for better absorption. “People try to take these supplements on empty stomachs or with low-fat meals, which can negatively reduce their effectiveness,” said Dr Agarwal.
Dr Sarwate asserted that if you suspect that a fat malabsorption issue is affecting your vitamin D levels, you should consult a specialist rather than self-diagnosing or self-treating.
Also, many people often take the wrong type of vitamin D supplements. “This can often happen when you try to take supplements without consulting a doctor,” said Dr Agarwal.
Elderly adults are at a higher risk of developing vitamin D deficiency. According to Dr Sarwate, this is partly because the skin’s ability to synthesise vitamin D declines with age, and they may also have inadequate dietary intakes of vitamin D.
What can help?
It becomes crucial to take proactive steps to prevent such mistakes.
“Remember, sun exposure is one of the natural and most effective ways to produce vitamin D. One should get 10 to 30 minutes of sunlight a few times a week. Add vitamin D-rich foods to your diet,” said Dr Sarwate.
Dietitian Lavleen Kaur says raw vegetables like carrots help absorb vitamin D before a meal.
Dr Agarwal said that regular blood tests can help monitor your levels. If the deficiency lasts longer, then immediately consult a doctor.
Summary: Even with vitamin D supplements, low levels may persist due to factors like poor absorption, incorrect dosage, or underlying health conditions.