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Signs & Symptoms of Low Vitamin D & Low Iron

Vitamin and mineral deficiencies can cause several health problems for people of all ages. Eating a diet that is rich in nutrient-packed foods, including meals that contain vitamin D and iron, can help to keep bones strong, boost mood and prevent the onset of more serious conditions.

  1. Weakness

    • Weakness and pain in the bones and muscles could indicate a low amount of vitamin D in the blood. Since not enough of the vitamin is coming in contact with the internal organs and the bloodstream, the body does not have the right amount of energy, so people with the deficiency may feel the need to take breaks, even in the middle of doing low-energy tasks. Pain the bones may also be an indication that there isn't enough calcium in the bones, which is a symptom of vitamin D deficiency. If the problem is not corrected, this condition could lead to osteoporosis, especially for women.

    Decreased Brain Development

    • Vitamin D is necessary for the correct formation of brain tissues, which is why it is so important for children to receive adequate servings of the vitamin each day. Vitamin D receptors need to be circulating in the brain in order for the organ to do its job. The vitamin is made up of prohormones that are fat-soluble. They're responsible for human motor skill development, as well as the learning and memory functions of the brain. Senior citizens should also make sure that adequate Vitamin D is included in the diet to prevent cognitive disorders later in life.

    Fatigue

    • Iron deficiency happens when there is an overload of red blood cells in the body---the more red blood cells there are, the more iron is being depleted. This makes the body feel tired in a shorter amount of time, which is why many people with iron deficiency have the desire to take naps in the middle of the day, or to go to bed early. Since the body is not very active when it is weak, this can also result in low blood pressure, especially when a person changes position, such as going from sitting down to standing up.

    Decreased Appetite

    • Red blood cell overproduction means that the body is working overtime to produce new cells. So, in addition to feeling tired, people may also experience a decrease in appetite. Food stays in the body longer than it should due to an iron deficiency, which can also result in constipation---another reason why people that suffer from the condition don't have the desire to eat. Children are often more likely to display this symptom than older patients.

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