The most dangerous sign of vitamin D deficiency is not lower back pain or depression; then what is it?

US-based health expert Dr Eric Berg says the most dangerous symptom of vitamin D deficiency is loss of immunity levels, which can lead to destruction of T cells, leading to autoimmune diseases. Vitamin D deficiency increases the risk of infection, which is a sign that the immune system is affected. In addition to T-cells, vitamin D also affects the immune system by affecting the function of B cells, dendritic cells, and macrophages. Read on to know more.

T-cells are a type of white blood cells called lymphocytes that help your immune system fight germs and protect you from disease.

According to top US-based health professionals, not having enough vitamin D in your diet can deplete your immunity, leading to various diseases, including autoimmune diseases. “The most dangerous thing about not having vitamin D is related to your immune system because vitamin D helps make your T-cells,” Dr. Eric Berg said on his Instagram channel.

T-cells are a type of white blood cell called lymphocytes that help your immune system fight germs and protect you from disease.

Vitamin D deficiency increases the risk of infection and autoimmune disease, which is a sign that the immune system is compromised. In addition to T-cells, vitamin D also affects the immune system by affecting the function of B cells, dendritic cells, and macrophages.

How does Vitamin D deficiency cause autoimmune diseases?

Dr. Berg explained that autoimmune diseases may be caused by the failure of T-cells to distinguish unhealthy or infected cells from healthy cells.

A new study in mice shows that vitamin D deficiency led to the development of T cells that generate excessive immune responses against healthy tissues. T-cells are also involved in facilitating the immune response against germs and eliminating cells that may be infected or contain cancer.

How is Vitamin D linked to autoimmune conditions?

Studies suggest that vitamin D potentially regulates T-cell function in early life and, subsequently, the risk of autoimmune conditions. Vitamin D is converted to its biologically active form in the body by the enzyme Cyp27b1. According to scientists, the ability to produce the active form of vitamin D arises as a result of genetically engineered mutations in both copies of the gene.

Without vitamin D, the size of the thymus decreases and low numbers of T cells in the blood indicate a higher risk of autoimmune diseases.

Health Benefits of Vitamin D

Getting enough vitamin D helps with the growth and development of bones and teeth. It also provides better immunity against many diseases. Some other benefits include:

Regulate and improve mood

According to experts, vitamin D plays an important role in regulating mood and reducing the risk of depression and anxiety.

Aids in weight loss

People who are overweight are more likely to have low vitamin D levels, linking vitamin D and obesity. People who take daily calcium and vitamin D supplements lose weight because both nutrients have appetite suppressant effects.

Symptoms and signs of vitamin D deficiency

According to the National Institutes of Health, the recommended dietary allowances of vitamin D for different age groups include:

Infant (0-12 months) – 10 mcg or 400 international units
Children and Teens – 15 mcg (600 IU)
Adults ages 18-70 – 15 mcg (600 IU)
Adults over 70 – 20 mcg (800 IU)
Pregnant women or those who are breastfeeding – 15 mcg (600 IU)

However, deficiency may cause symptoms such as:

tiredness and extreme fatigue
insomnia
bone ache or pain
depression or persistent feeling of sadness
hair fall
muscle weakness
loss of appetite
high blood pressure level
falling sick more easily

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