A doctor has outlined six warning signs of vitamin D deficiency as many get deplenished during the winter months.
With temperamental weather and shorter days, it’s difficult to get enough vitamin D through sun exposure in the UK between October and early March.
While your body is able to create vitamin D from direct sunlight when you spend time outdoors during the rest of the year, the winter period presents a risk of deficiency.
Worryingly, inadequate vitamin D levels can contribute to a range of health issues, making symptom awareness front and centre.
Fortunately, Dr Janine Bowring took to her TikTok to highlight what to look out for.
1. Achy ankles
The first red flag the doctor recommended being aware of is painful ankles and the bottoms of your feet. She explained that this sign can become apparent when you take the first few steps when you wake up.
2. Sore muscles
Another tell could be waking up with muscles that feel like you did a workout yesterday. Dr Janine added you can also feel stiff.
3. Stiff neck
Similarly to sore muscles, people with vitamin D deficiency may also experience stiff neck and trapezius muscles. “You get achy in this area,” the doctor added.
4. Sore knees, hips and ankles
Other areas of your body that can feel painful include your knees, your hips and your ankles.
5. Chronic back pain
Dr Janine explained that another warning sign is chronic back pain.
6. Inability to form a fist
Lastly, difficulty making a fist could also ring alarm bells.
“If any of these are problematic for you, it may be time to ask your doctor about testing your vitamin D levels,” the doctor added.
Fortunately, taking vitamin D supplements during the winter months in the UK could help shield you from developing the deficiency.
The Public Health England advises all adults and children over the age of one to consider taking 10 micrograms of vitamin D in a pill form between October and early March.
Dr Janine recommended opting for vitamin D3. She added: “Make sure it has good carrier oil like MCTs from coconuts to help with that proper absorption.”
