Beware of vitamin D deficiency in the elderly

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Extract from the article: Approximately one billion people worldwide suffer from a vitamin D deficiency or low vitamin D levels. The elderly are the most affected, but a deficiency in vitamin D can occur at any age. Vitamin D enables the body to absorb calcium to strengthen

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Approximately one billion people worldwide suffer from a vitamin D deficiency or low vitamin D levels. The elderly are the most affected, but a deficiency in vitamin D can occur at any age.

Vitamin D enables the body to absorb calcium to strengthen the skeleton. It helps the body's immune system fight viruses and bacteria and plays a role in the development of certain cancers, cardiovascular diseases, or certain mental illnesses in case of deficiency.

Deficiencies and Diseases

In more severe cases, prolonged and acute vitamin D deficiency can weaken the bones (osteoporosis) or soften them (osteomalacia). Moderate daily sun exposure, as well as a varied and balanced diet, are necessary to avoid a deficiency in vitamin D. A deficiency in vitamin D therefore leads to a lack of calcium and phosphorus, and its symptoms generally include muscle weakness, fatigue, and a depressed mood. In more severe cases, a deficiency in vitamin D can weaken the bones in children and adults due to insufficient bone mineralization.

A vitamin D deficiency in the elderly develops over the long term. The symptoms are often diffuse and rarely have an obvious link to vitamin D. They may include general fatigue, a depressed mood, difficulty walking, a lack of energy, or muscle weakness. You may need to use your hands to help yourself get up or have difficulty climbing stairs.

Sources of Vitamin D

To prevent a vitamin D deficiency, it is advisable to consume foods rich in vitamin D preventively and expose your skin to the sun for 15 to 30 minutes a day during the warmest and brightest season. However, be sure to avoid sun damage. Therefore, limit the duration of exposure. Foods richest in vitamin D include salmon, egg yolk, and cheese.

Raymond DZAKPATA