7 Possible Causes of Vitamin D Deficiency

Lack of sun exposure

“Vitamin D is produced 70% through the skin under the influence of the sun’s ultraviolet rays. The remaining 30% is provided by food, Immediately explains Florence Foucault, dietitian-nutritionist and member of the French Association of Dietitians-Nutritionists. Most often, it is caused by a lack of vitamin D Inadequate exposure to sunlight. “In winter we lack sunlight. Light is weak and short lived compared to spring/summer season. In addition, in winter, we are more covered; Therefore, we are less exposed and the synthesis of vitamin D is less good. Conversely, exposing your forearms in the summer, just a few minutes a day, is enough to make it. In addition, vitamin D can be stored. So performance is possible in summer (except 12 noon to 4 pm)

To augment our stock, which will slowly deplete during the winter“

Less consumption of fatty fish

About a third of vitamin D comes from food. Daily requirements can be met by eating certain rich foods, along with adequate exposure to daylight. Globally, Deficiency can occur in the absence of consumption of food sources of vitamin D as Fatty fish (sardines, salmon, mackerel, etc.)Dairy products (especially rich in calcium and vitamin D), Cod liver, certain mushrooms, egg yolk, Offal (especially meat liver).

Dark skin promotes defects

They have a large amount of melanin that can block UV rays.

“People with olive and dark skin are at higher risk of vitamin D deficiency. Our nutritionist suggests. Indeed, they have large amounts of melanin, Skin pigment that can block UV And in fact the synthesis of vitamin D. On medical advice, they may be advised to take supplements during the winter period.” Furthermore, among those who Use more of the total screenSynthesis is less efficient.

Hormonal changes

“The Hormonal upheaval Vitamin D affects biosynthesis. Pregnant women and postmenopausal women Hence the population is at risk of deficiency“, explains our interlocutor. Hormonal fluctuations can cause bone demineralization, which increases the risk of fractures.

Overweight and obesity

“Vitamin D is fat soluble, so it is Stored in adipose tissue. Being overweight or obese can potentially be Causes lack of bioavailability of vitamin D“, she explains. Certain pathologies are also at risk, especially those that induce intestinal malabsorption, such as celiac disease (gluten intolerance) or after bariatric surgery.

Strict vegetarian diet

Diet Avoiding meat, fish, eggs or dairy products Promote the dangers of vitamin D deficiency. Florence Foucault recommendsConsult for prevention A food professional, dietitian-nutritionist or even their pharmacist, especially for adult populations at risk of deficiency.

Age, a proven risk factor

Infants and old Vitamin D deficiency in particular is at risk.”As we age, our skin synthesizes less vitamin D. Elderly people have very thin skin. So vitamin D becomes less“, explains Florence Foucault. Lack of this vitamin in the elderly Promotes the occurrence of osteoporosis and the risk of femoral neck fracture. To ensure proper development of their skeleton and prevent rickets, Newborns are systematically supplemented On medical prescription in France. “Infants born from September They are more concerned, associated with insufficient exposure to natural light, which is necessary for the synthesis of vitamin D. In autumn and winter, babies are covered, well bundled and with practically no area of ​​skin exposed.

“, our expert describes. Summer-born babies, for their part, can keep their arms open while walking, of course without exposing them to the sun (instead it is recommended that you avoid walking your child between 12:00 PM and 4:00 PM: 00 pm when it’s hot outside).

Thanks to Florence Foucault, dietitian-nutritionist and member of the AFDN (French Association of Dietitian Nutritionists).