How to detect vitamin D3 deficiency in the body? Testing levels and interpreting results

Vitamin D₃ affects many processes in the human body. Even minor deficiencies can contribute to the impairment of almost all systems. This is particularly worrying as up to 90% of the population in Poland may suffer from a deficiency of this compound. Avitaminosis is difficult to diagnose, and maintaining optimal levels without the right knowledge seems impossible. How can vitamin D3 deficiency be detected in the body?

Vitamin D₃ deficiency - causes, symptoms and effects

Vitamin D₃ is synthesised by the body mainly under the influence of ultraviolet radiation. However, its production is influenced by many factors - the season, latitude, skin colour and age. The compound can also be supplied to a small extent exogenously, i.e. through food (fish, eggs, cheese, milk, offal).

Vitamin D3 deficiency is very common, and the leading causes include:

• an unbalanced diet
• impaired skin synthesis
• hydroxylation disorders
• insufficient exposure to sunlight
• chronic diseases (e.g. malabsorption syndrome)

Symptoms of vitamin D₃ deficiency

The symptoms of deficiency are often challenging even for doctors, as they are not obvious and do not clearly indicate a vitamin D₃ deficiency. What are the symptoms?

• bone and muscle pain
• insomnia
• digestive disorders (diarrhoea, loss of appetite)
• weakness and malaise
• reduced immunity

Effects of vitamin D₃ deficiency

Most people are aware of the consequences of long-term vitamin D₃ deficiency – at least in part – it is widely known that it causes osteoporosis and other degenerative diseases of the skeletal system. But that's not all – as new research has shown, vitamin D deficiency may be closely linked to the risk of several diseases:

• type 2 diabetes mellitus
• depression
• cardiovascular disease
• obesity
• neurodegenerative diseases (Parkinson's, Alzheimer's)

Low levels of vitamin D₃ in the body are very dangerous for children. Cholecalciferol plays an active role in the processes of intensive growth and determines the proper development of the skeleton. Any deficiencies can lead to the development of rickets and delayed closure of the fontanelle.

Vitamin D3 - norm

An optimal level of vitamin D3 in the body is very important for maintaining health. It maintains the calcium-phosphate balance in the body, affects the functioning of the kidneys and intestines, and participates in the mineralisation of bone tissue and teeth. It supports the functioning of the circulatory system, has a positive effect on the nervous and immune systems, and regulates the processes of proliferation, differentiation and apoptosis of many types of cells.

The appropriate level of vitamin D₃ is 30-50 ng/ml and is the same for all age groups. Values below or above the norm should be cause for concern and certainly require intervention.

Vitamin D₃ - dosage

A balanced supply of vitamin D3 is a very important element in preventing deficiencies (and their consequences). It should be tailored to current individual needs, although it is worth following the official recommendations. The Polish guidelines for vitamin D supplementation date from 2018 and are as follows: