The recommended daily allowance, according to the Institute of Medicine, is 600 IU/day for adults and 800 IU/day for the elderly. [3] X Research source
People who live in regions with less sunlight are also at a higher risk. These include countries in Northern Europe and Asia, Canada, the Northern United States, Southern Argentina and Chile. Children in developed countries, like the United States, tend to spend less time outside, and are more likely to wear sunblock when outside, which inhibits vitamin D synthesis.
Consider vitamin D deficiency testing if you are a vegetarian or vegan, and make sure your diet includes fortified foods such as cereals and orange juice.
In particular, if you have a vitamin D deficiency you might notice that you get sick easily because your immune sickness is weak. You might also have depleted hormone levels and low energy. [10] X Expert Source Kristi AcunaHolistic Nutritionist Expert Interview. 17 September 2020.
If left untreated rickets can lead to a curved spine, skeletal deformities, dental problems, and seizures. [13] X Trustworthy Source Cleveland Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source You should talk to your pediatrician if your child is not growing at a consistent rate, and check if this might be due to vitamin D deficiency.
Low levels of vitamin D can also be the reason behind pain or a slow recovery after a work out session.
Although this might be too vague a symptom for adults, a sweaty forehead in newborns is one of the most evident symptoms of vitamin D deficiency.
Healthy individuals usually have a level between 20 ng/ml to 50 ng/ml. A level below 12 ng/mL is a sign of vitamin D deficiency. [17] X Research source