Vitamin D: benefits, deficiency and how to get it

Vitamin D, also known as the 'sunshine vitamin', plays a vital role in keeping us healthy. Although it is best known for its contribution to bone health, recent research has uncovered a multitude of other benefits of vitamin D, from strengthening the immune system to protecting against chronic diseases.

The Elytis Hospitalwe understand the importance of vitamin D for your health and offer you access to state-of-the-art laboratory tests to check your levels.

What is vitamin D and why is it important?

Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin that is essential for the absorption of calcium and phosphorus, minerals crucial for bone health. Vitamin D also contributes to:

• Boost the immune system: vitamin D helps regulate the immune response and protect the body against infection.
• Reduced risk of chronic diseases: studies have associated optimal vitamin D levels with a reduced risk of cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, certain types of cancer and multiple sclerosis.
• Maintaining mental health: vitamin D may play a role in regulating mood and reducing the risk of depression and anxiety.
• Support muscle function: vitamin D is important for muscle strength and optimal muscle function.

Vitamin D deficiency: a common problem

Unfortunately, vitamin D deficiency is a common problem, affecting a significant number of people. Factors such as limited sun exposure, old age, obesity, certain medical conditions and a diet low in vitamin D can all contribute to vitamin D deficiency.

Symptoms of vitamin D deficiency can be subtle and non-specific, including fatigue, muscle and bone pain, general weakness and increased susceptibility to infections. In severe cases, vitamin D deficiency can lead to rickets in children and osteomalacia in adults.

Elytis Hospital: high-performance laboratory tests to determine vitamin D levels

The Elytis Hospitalwe provide you with state-of-the-artlaboratory tests to determine the level of vitamin D in your body. Our labs are equipped with state-of-the-art medical equipment from prestigious companies in the field, ensuring the accuracy and speed of results.

• Cutting-edge technology: our laboratories are equipped with state-of-the-art medical equipment, guaranteeing accurate results.
• Qualified medical staff: our team of specialists is made up of experienced professionals dedicated to providing the best medical care.
• Speed of results: we strive to provide test results as quickly as possible to facilitate medical decision-making.
• Convenience and accessibility: Elytis Hospital has 2 collection points, facilitating patient access to our services.
• Customized test packages: we offer specially designed test packages for a general health assessment, including vitamin D testing.

How to schedule your vitamin D test at Elytis Hospital?

Appointment for vitamin D testing at Elytis Hospital can be done simply and quickly via:

• Phone: you can call 0319006 to schedule a visit.
• Online: you can fill in the online appointment form available on our website.
• Direct visit: you can come to one of our harvesting points to schedule a visit.

Elytis Hospital has the mission to maintain the high quality of the medical services offered, through the continuous improvement of the services, and especially, through a permanent communication with the patients, in order to better understand their needs.

How can you maintain optimal vitamin D levels?

• Sun exposure: spending 15-20 minutes a day in the sun, with your face and arms uncovered, can help your body produce vitamin D.
• Diet: eating foods rich in vitamin D, such as oily fish (salmon, mackerel, tuna), eggs, mushrooms and vitamin D-fortified foods, can help maintain optimal levels.
• Vitamin D supplements: if vitamin D levels are low, your doctor may recommend taking supplements.

It's important to talk to your doctor about the need to test your vitamin D levels and how to keep them within optimal limits.

Elytis Hospital: your partner for a healthy life

The Elytis Hospitalwe are dedicated to providing quality medical services tailored to the needs of each patient. From high-performance laboratory tests to specialized medical consultations, we are here to help you maintain your health and well-being.

Don't neglect the importance of vitamin D! Make an appointment today at Elytis Hospital to have your levels checked and receive personalized advice for healthy living.

Latest revision:

01.03.2025, Laura Țăranu, laboratory coordinator

References:

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• Gabaj, Nora Nikolac, et al. "In sickness and in health: pivotal role of vitamin D". Biochemia Media, 2020, vol. 30, no. 2.
• Holick, Michael F. "Vitamin D: importance in the prevention of cancers, type 1 diabetes, heart disease, and osteoporosis". The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 2004, vol. 79, no. 3, pg. 362 - 371.
• Karampela, Irene, et. al. "Vitamin D and Obesity: Current Evidence and Controversies". Current Obesity Reports, 2021, vol. 10, pg. 162 - 180.
• Medrano, Mayte, et. al. "Vitamin D: Effect on Haematopoiesis and Immune System and Clinical Applications". International Journal of Molecular Science, 2018, vol. 19, no. 9.
• Pilz, Stefan, et. al. "The Role of Vitamin D in Fertility and during Pregnancy and Lactation: A Review of Clinical Data". International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 2018, vol. 15, no. 10.
• Sizar, O., et. al. "Vitamin D Deficiency." StatPearls Publishing, Treasure Island, 2018.