Vitamin D Deficiency

A deficiency in vitamin D can lead to symptoms such as fatigue, muscle weakness, bone pain, and an increased risk of fractures, while severe deficiency in children can cause rickets, a condition that leads to weak and deformed bones. Regular monitoring through vitamin D testing is important for individuals with ongoing health concerns or those undergoing treatment for deficiency.

When to consult a doctor for vitamin D deficiency ?

If you have ongoing fatigue, bone pain, or muscle weakness

See a GP if you experience persistent tiredness, low energy, bone or joint pain, muscle aches, cramps, or weakness, as these can be signs of vitamin D deficiency affecting bone and muscle health.

If you get sick often or notice mood and hair changes

Consult a doctor if you have frequent infections, low immunity, mood changes such as low mood or depressive symptoms, or unexplained hair thinning or loss, which may be linked to low vitamin D levels.

If you are at higher risk of deficiency

Seek medical advice if you have limited sun exposure, darker skin tone, are older in age, or have conditions such as coeliac disease, Crohn’s disease, kidney problems, or other conditions that affect vitamin D absorption or metabolism.

This guide does not replace professional care. Consult a doctor to manage your symptoms. In emergencies, call 000. The content is research-backed & medically reviewed by Dr. Ammar AL-ANI, MBChB, CCBST, AMC

Causes

Vitamin D deficiency can occur due to various factors, including lifestyle, medical conditions, and environmental influences. Here are the primary causes:

Lack of sun exposure: The body produces vitamin D when exposed to sunlight. Limited sun exposure due to indoor lifestyles, wearing excessive sunscreen, or living in areas with less sunlight can lead to deficiency.

Dietary deficiency: Not consuming enough vitamin D-rich foods, such as fatty fish (salmon, tuna), egg yolks, fortified dairy, and plant-based milk, can contribute to low levels.

Darker skin tone: Higher melanin levels in darker skin reduce the skin’s ability to produce vitamin D from sunlight, increasing the risk of deficiency.

Aging: Older adults produce less vitamin D because their skin becomes less efficient at synthesising it. Additionally, kidney function declines with age, affecting vitamin D conversion.

Medical conditions: Certain conditions such as celiac disease, Crohn’s disease, chronic kidney or liver disease and obesity interfere with vitamin D absorption and metabolism.

Certain medications: Long-term use of some medications can lower vitamin D levels, including corticosteroids, anticonvulsants, weight-loss drugs affecting fat absorption.

Prevention tips

Simple daily habits, eating the right foods, and getting some sunlight can help keep your vitamin D levels healthy and prevent deficiency.

Get safe sun exposure:
Spend 10–30 minutes in sunlight a few times a week, depending on skin type and location.

Include vitamin D–rich foods:
Eat fatty fish (salmon, tuna, sardines), egg yolks, mushrooms, and fortified foods like milk or cereals.

Maintain a balanced diet:
Ensure adequate calcium and magnesium intake to support vitamin D absorption.

Stay active outdoors:
Regular outdoor physical activity helps increase natural vitamin D production.

Consider supplements if needed:
Vitamin D supplements may be recommended by a doctor, especially for high-risk individuals. Remember, supplements should not replace a balanced diet.

Support gut health:
Good digestion helps nutrient absorption—include fibre-rich foods and probiotics where appropriate.

Avoid excessive sunscreen indoors:
Use sun protection wisely; brief, safe exposure helps vitamin D synthesis.

How telehealth can help

If you are experiencing symptoms, speak to a GP first to discuss your health.

Hola Health provides a convenient way for you to consult a doctor online, 24/7 across Australia. Our AHPRA-registered Australian online GP will conduct a comprehensive assessment to provide the best possible care.

Clinical note: An online GP assessment helps provide medical advice for your symptoms and evaluate if a face-to-face consultation or physical examination is needed. Online GPs can provide prescriptions, pathology referrals or online medical certificates if clinically indicated. Telehealth is a complementary service; while a GP can provide clinical advice and pathology referrals, a blood test is mandatory to confirm deficiency levels. Bulk billing is available for eligible patients during Medicare-defined after-hours periods; otherwise, private fees apply. Consultations are secure, encrypted, and Australian-stored (in compliance with the Australian Privacy Principles). In case of sudden severe bone pain, confusion, or medical emergencies, call 000 immediately. We recommend sharing your consult summaries with your regular GP to ensure continuity of care.