What is vitamin D?
Vitamin D is a unique vitamin that is needed throughout life. Without it bones become weak and with very weak bones (known as osteoporosis), minimal injury can lead to fractures. In older adults, a lack of this vitamin can also cause weak muscles leading to loss of balance and falls. Other conditions such as high blood sugar (diabetes mellitus), heart problems and certain cancers might also be linked to the lack of this vitamin. The development or worsening of mental health problems could also be related to inadequate vitamin D levels in the body.
From where can you get vitamin D?
Most of this vitamin can be obtained naturally when the skin is directly exposed to the sunlight and that is why this vitamin is also called the "sunshine vitamin". Exposing your skin for a few minutes in the sun will increase your body's vitamin D stores. It is important to avoid a sunburn. Vitamin D can be found in some foods, but usually in small amounts, so dietary sources are unlikely to be enough. Oily fish, such as sardines and salmon, eggs and mushrooms have some vitamin D content. Some breakfast cereals, dairy products and margarine might have vitamin D added to them (check the ingredients section).
Who is at risk of low vitamin D?
Older adults are at particular risk of vitamin D deficiency as the skin does not absorb sunlight effectively. Moreover, they might not be exposed to enough sunlight as they mostly stay indoors for long periods due to mobility and other health problems. People taking certain medications that reduce vitamin D absorption might also be at risk of low vitamin D levels.
What are your vitamin D levels?
If you are at risk of having low vitamin D levels consult your doctor. If the doctor finds you at risk of deficiency they can order a blood test to measure your levels. If your vitamin D levels are low, supplements in the form of capsules/tablets can be prescribed. Vitamin D can also be found in multi-vitamins or in combination with other nutrients or calcium. Some products containing fish oils might have vitamin D and therefore always check the labels to make sure you're not taking more than required.
Doctors play a major role in educating their patients. Dr Bonnici and her colleagues conducted a study to assess the knowledge and management of Maltese doctors with regard to vitamin D in the elderly population. This study showed that most of Maltese doctors have a good knowledge on vitamin D and are managing their patients well. Despite this, there is still room for improvement and most doctors do not feel confident enough in their knowledge and would like more post-graduate training. Following this study, an information sheet on vitamin D was made available to those doctors working at Mater Dei Hospital.
Dr Maria Bonnici is an HST in Geriatric Medicine