In order to explain and understand vitamin D deficiency, one needs to necessarily refer to the regular functions of this vitamin within the system. It basically ensures the proper maintenance of the organs by the regulation of the calcium and the phosphorus levels in the blood. Bone formation and mineralization are also closely connected with vitamin D, therefore, the development of a healthy skeleton is not possible if the vitamin D intake is not satisfactory. Hence, we can easily draw the consequences of the vitamin D deficiency. Bone softening, osteoporosis and improper functioning of the liver and the kidneys are the most common problems that are likely to appear when not enough vitamin D is processed in the system.

There are two main causes identified as lying behind regular vitamin D deficiency, and they include improper intake and little exposure to sunlight. The latter element has a crucial role in the metabolic processing and the absorption of vitamin D, therefore, it is highly important to ensure proper sun exposure during the summer months. Scientific research has recently revealed a connection between colon cancer and vitamin D deficiency, not to mention that other possible malign tumor development is suspected in relation with the same deficiency.

The first measure taken for the prevention of vitamin D deficiency was the fortification of certain foods with this vitamin as it was the case with dairy products. Rickets as a major health problem resulting from vitamin D deficiency was drastically reduced following such measures. The next question one may ask concerns the group of people most likely to be affected by vitamin D deficiency. Children, the elderly and overweight people are among the groups with the highest risks, as vitamin D absorption may be deficient for such cases. Furthermore, doctors often supplement the diet of patients with the parathyroid glands removed, as they are also likely to suffer from vitamin D deficiency.

The importance of sunscreens is definitely undeniable, but what most people don't really know is that the production of vitamin D in the skin is inhibited almost completely when a cream or lotion with a sun protection factor is used. Therefore, in order to cover both health aspects, it is advisable to take some form of vitamin D supplements during the period you may be using sunscreens. Another time of the year when vitamin deficiencies are likely to occur is the cold season, when sun exposure is close to zero, and the production of vitamin D drops significantly.