We all absorb vitamin D differently and this could be for many different reasons. Being aware of how much vitamin D we are getting is important. Speak to your Doctor about getting your levels checked if you find that one or more of the risks below apply to you.
Having darker skin - people with darker skin have higher levels of melanin which results in less vitamin D being absorbed from the sun.
Wearing sunscreen - wearing sunscreen reduces the absorption of vitamin D, try spending 10-15 minutes in the sun before applying sunscreen.
People who are house bound or have jobs that keep them working indoors.
Age also raises our risk of becoming deficient - as we age our skins ability to absorb vitamin D lessens.
Having cystic fibrosis, celiac or Crohn’s disease can increase your risk at becoming deficient in vitamin D as they reduce the intestines ability to absorb vitamin D through diet or supplements.
Exclusively breastfed infants and especially those whose mothers were low or deficient in vitamin D during pregnancy. Breast milk contains low amounts of Vitamin D, infants need vitamin D for skeletal growth along with bone and teeth development.
And lastly following a vegetarian or vegan diet can reduce the amount of vitamin D in the diet.
