Vitamin D is a crucial nutrient for bone health. It helps ensure their strength, but it can become compromised during treatment for arthritis. People who take oral corticosteroids for arthritis often develop vitamin D deficiency which can affect bone strength. People with arthritis are often prescribed steroids, and this makes regular vitamin D checks important.
Symptoms of Vitamin D Deficiency
One of the biggest problems vitamin D deficiency can cause is osteomalacia. This is the softening of the bones and is also known as rickets. It can little to brittle bones and weakened muscles. Vitamin D deficiency also increases the risk of fracture, chronic bone pain, hearing loss and even tooth decay.
Increasing your Vitamin D Intake
If your vitamin D is tested and you have a deficiency, there are many things you can do. You may take a supplement, but you can also consider:
More time in the Sun
Even a little more UV exposure can make a difference to your vitamin D levels. Go for a gentle stroll in the sunlight, for just 10 minutes, every other day and help boost and activate the body’s vitamin D production. The darker your skin, the more exposure you need.
Add Fish to your Diet
Many different types of fish are packed with vitamin D. Just 3oz of mackerel can provide your recommended daily amount of the vitamin. Wild salmon too is a great choice for high vitamin D content too.
Take a Natural Supplement
Rather than taking a specific vitamin D, you could opt for a more natural supplement. One of the best sources of vitamin D is cod liver oil and it’s still easily bought at almost any health food shop and most supermarkets.
If you require help and treatment for a rheumatological condition please get in touch. We can discuss your Vitamin D levels and look at ways of boosting your intake if it is found to be a problem.
