Rising cases of Vitamin D deficiency

General
1

Vitamin D deficiency has become a widespread health concern in India, affecting nearly half of the population. This deficiency can lead to a range of health problems, including hormonal imbalance, arthritis, and other conditions. What steps can be taken to mitigate this issue and promote better health outcomes?"

Some possible measures to address vitamin D deficiency include:

Dietary changes: Increasing consumption of vitamin D-rich foods such as fatty fish, egg yolks, and fortified dairy products.

Supplementation: Taking vitamin D supplements, especially during winter months or for individuals with limited sun exposure.

Sunlight exposure: Spending time outdoors, especially during peak sun hours, to boost vitamin D production in the skin.

Fortification: Supporting food fortification initiatives to increase vitamin D content in staple foods.

What do you think are the most effective ways to address vitamin D deficiency in India?

5 Likes
2

I was diagnosed with Vitamin D deficiency too. My doctor just gave me supplements but didn’t really explain how to manage it long-term. Still figuring out the right routine.

1 Like
3

Same. And It does Lead to hormonal imbalance.

1 Like
4

You are right! I think awareness is the first thing. Once we realize, we need more vitamin D, we can takes steps.

Fortification of milk with Vitamin D and food fortification has been in practice in the USA from 1930s. For example, breads are fortified with vitamin B like Thiamine, Niacin, Folic acid etc. Now, these are not FDA mandated, but FDA had come out with these guidelines in those times.
Milk fortification with vitamin D has decreased the incidence of Rickets in USA.
How much is this practical in India where the shelf-life of milk is short is another issue.
#Rickets

4 Likes
5

People should get their vid D tested regularly though nobody take this seriously. Should spread more awareness I think.

2 Likes
6

We need immediate health programs, similar to the compulsory folic acid supplementation in the Anganwadi scheme, to address health issues before they become major concerns.

1 Like
7

All the possible measures you have addressed to deal with the vitamin D deficiency plays an important role in individual level.
For long lasting effects, adopting all of this in the lifestyle can be the only potential solution.

2 Likes
8

No matter how much supplements you take, tests always indicates deficiency.

3 Likes
9

And remove some corruption also so that the kids get rich nutrition rather than diluted low quality cereals.

4 Likes
10

Soaking ourselves in sunlight is the best solution, but daily errands/chore become a great hurdle.

1 Like
11

Agreed! But as moringa has gain it’s importance, there must be something that can compensate Vitamin D deficiency.

12

Provide Vitamin-D supplements through PHCs, schools, etc.
Government can initiate programmes regarding this.

13

Vit D deficiency is generally thought to be due to lack of sunlight exposure bt that’s not true in most of the cases

14

Yes, this can lead to muscle pain too

15

Honestly, with our indoor lifestyles and limited sun exposure, it’s no surprise so many of us are low on vitamin D. A mix of conscious sun time, simple diet tweaks, and affordable supplements can really help, it’s all about small, consistent steps.

16

Yea even i was diagnosed with vitamin D deficiency then prescribed supplements brought the levels back to how it should be