Persistent fatigue is one of the most common symptoms of vitamin D deficiency. If you feel tired, exhausted, and low on energy despite having a good sleep pattern, vitamin D deficiency could be a contributing factor.
Vitamin D deficiency tiredness is one of the most common reasons people begin looking into their levels – let’s see how and why this happens.
Can Low Vitamin D Cause Fatigue?
Fatigue can be a manifestation of low vitamin D levels. This is because vitamin D plays a major role in muscle function and energy production.
Why Does Vitamin D Deficiency Cause Tiredness?
Research suggests that vitamin D plays a role in regulating muscle contraction and strength. Low levels can undermine this process, resulting in muscle weakness and aches, making everyday tasks more difficult and leading to tiredness.
Furthermore, studies indicate that low levels of vitamin D may disrupt energy production at a cellular level, contributing to persistent fatigue throughout the day.
Other Symptoms That May Occur Alongside Fatigue
Fatigue is one of the earliest signs of low vitamin D, but it is rarely the only one. Other symptoms to look out for include:
- Bone pain
- Muscle weakness
- Muscle aches and pains
- Sleep disturbance
- Low mood
- Low immunity
- Decreased growth and rickets (in children)
Read our full guide on vitamin D deficiency symptoms for more in-depth information on all the other side effects of vitamin D deficiency.
What Causes Vitamin D Deficiency?
There are many factors that can contribute to vitamin D deficiency, including:
Limited sun exposure – This is common during the winter months, when people spend the majority of their time indoors and have very little exposure to sunlight.
Skin colour – People with darker skin tones have higher levels of melanin, which can reduce the skin’s ability to produce vitamin D from sunlight. This may result in lower vitamin D levels compared to individuals with lighter skin tones.
Medical conditions – Conditions such as malabsorption syndromes, weight loss surgery, and kidney or liver problems can reduce the body’s ability to absorb or process vitamin D.
Obesity – A BMI of over 30 is associated with lower vitamin D levels. This is because vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin that can become stored in body fat, making it less available for use in the body.
How to Improve Energy Levels if You Are Deficient
Sunlight:
Vitamin D is often called the “sunshine vitamin” because direct exposure of the skin to sunlight helps the body produce it.
In the UK, from early April to late September, it is possible to get sufficient vitamin D from sun exposure depending on your location and skin type.
Diet:
Foods that contain or are fortified with vitamin D include:
- Oily fish (salmon, sardines, trout)
- Red meat
- Egg yolks
- Liver
- Breakfast cereals and fat spreads
Supplements:
If you’re experiencing vitamin D deficiency low energy symptoms, it may be worth considering supplementation. This can be a quick and effective way to restore vitamin D to optimal levels.
When choosing supplements, it is important to look for high-quality products with sensible dosage instructions. One option is Hello Vitamins, which offers a range of vitamin D products formulated by expert pharmacists and designed with quality in mind.
When Should You Be Concerned About Fatigue?
- You feel tired most days despite having a good sleep pattern
- Fatigue is affecting your daily activities
- You are housebound and have little exposure to sunlight
- You have accompanying symptoms such as muscle weakness, muscle aches, or bone discomfort
- You have other risk factors for deficiency
For more detailed medical advice, see the clinical guidance on vitamin D deficiency.
Vitamin D Defciency Fatigue FAQs
Below are some of the most frequently asked questions related to vitamin D deficiency specifically causing tiredness.
Does low vitamin D make you feel tired all the time?
Low levels of vitamin D can be linked to persistent tiredness. It is important to consult a healthcare professional if you are experiencing ongoing fatigue.
How quickly does vitamin D improve energy?
If you have low levels of vitamin D, taking supplements can help raise your levels and improve associated symptoms. Depending on the severity of the deficiency, you may notice improvements within a few weeks to a few months.
Does vitamin D help with sleep or energy?
Studies suggest that vitamin D deficiency is associated with sleep disorders and poor sleep quality. Improving vitamin D levels may help support better sleep. In turn, getting more restful sleep can help improve overall energy levels.
Conclusion
As explored in this article, persistent fatigue and low energy levels can sometimes be a manifestation of vitamin D deficiency. A simple blood test from your healthcare provider can help determine if this is contributing to your symptoms.
If you suspect low vitamin D levels, consider speaking to a healthcare professional or exploring safe ways to increase your intake.