Vitamin D is found in the form of ergocalciferol (D2) and cholecalciferol (D3). Although we can find some food sources that gives us this vitamin, our main source is the sun, thanks to ultraviolet B radiation. D2 is found mainly on salt water fish and fish liver oils, it can also be present in fortified foods such as milk.

As we get older we have higher requirements of vitamin D because there is a decline in skin synthesis. The use of sunscreen and having dark skin can also interfere with skin synthesis and contribute to the development of vitamin D deficiency symptoms.

Although this deficiency is a leading cause of rickets and osteomalacia, it is not the only factor that leads to these conditions. In order to determine if a lack of D vitamin is your problem, you will need to undergo proper testing to check your current levels of the vitamin.

A vitamin D deficiency can also lead to the development of hypocalcemia, and then causing hyperparathyroidism. This condition can lead to an impairment of bone mineralization.

It is important to stay vigilant of the common symptoms of a lack of vitamin D as this is one of the most common types of vitamin deficiencies. Symptoms include muscle weakness, bone pain and muscular pain. Everyone can suffer from these symptoms no matter what their age. The diagnosis must be elaborated taking into account the history of sunlight exposure and your dietary intake. Treatment will include D supplementations and correction of other deficiencies stemming from of this problem.