2. I have low vitamin D level while my elder sister in law doesn't. And my level wasn't marginally low, it was deficient. This surprised me greatly as I have always thought that I had a pretty decent diet. Plus I do go to the gym, and, when I'm not at work, namely when I'm travelling, I do walk outdoors. In contrast, my sister in law is more covered up than me when she goes out, and doesnt go to the gym etc. However, she hangs out her laundry each day, during which time her arms are probably exposed to sunlight.
In contrast, I go to work at 9, and leave anytime between 12 -2.30pm. The walk from my car to my clinic is about 1 minute, and during clinic hours I am in the confines of my consultation room. This is repeated in the evening when I run my evening clinic, between 6 - 8.30 pm. Living in an apartment, my drying area is covered. Even if I did have an outdoor drying area, having to work means I would probably hang my laundry at night, when there is no sun. The time between these two sessions is usually spent indoors, either at home, or the gym. Since the 2 year lockdown, and my son entering university, I no longer go out as I used to.At home, all the curtains are drawn, and I sit in the comfort of either the living room or my bedroom.
Someone asked me how this was possible as I have been going to the beach. Well, actually, I was only at the beach in December, and recently. And I use a 2 piece long sleeved swimsuit and long pants with SPF 50. This was to avoid having to use sunblock, which may damage corals, and getting stung by the tiny jellyfish in the sea. I also use reef shoes, which are low boots, and, with a snorkelling mask and snorkel, barely any part of my face is exposed.
I am convinced that my lifestyle contributed to my vitamin D deficiency .In addition to taking high levels of vitamin D, as prescribed by my endocrinologist, it is also time to take a a serious look at my lifestyle. I cant be taking supplements for the rest of my life, while continuing to indulge in practices that are harmful to my health.
So, what is the big deal about vitamin D, anyway? VitaminD is one of the 4 fat soluble vitamins. Also referred to as the sunshine vitamin, Vitamin D is produced by the skin following exposure to sunlight. Its most commonly known function is to make strong bones from calcium and phosphorus absorption .
In recent years, more facts about vitamin D have emerged, as well as the consequences of vitamin D deficiency. Vitamin D deficiency can cause osteoporosis, and is linked to muscle weakness, particularly proximal myopathy, bone pain, raised. cholestrol levels, particularly HDL and triglycerides, pins and needles in the feet and fingers,muscle spasms, and mood fluctuations.
How can we get vitamin D? One of the sources is sunlight. However, darker skin, cloud cover, and wearing occlusive garments limit the amount of sunlight exposure, and thus the amount of vitamin D. Food such as egg yolk and sardines are also rich in vitamin D, as are fortified cereals, milk, and orange juice.
What am I doing about my low vitamin D levels ?
my endocrinologist has prescribed oral vitamin D, and to me to take it for 2 months before repeating the test
I plan on consuming more vitamin D rich food
I plan on going outdoors more often. This is difficult due to my working hours. Something will have to change, and soon. Let me ruminate on this a bit
I hope that with these measures, my vitamin D levels will return to normal, together with my cholestrol levels.
