Vitamin D Deficiency

Vitamin D deficiency is a condition that happens when a person isn't getting enough vitamin D, which is needed for strong bones and overall health.

More to Know

Vitamin D plays a key role in bone health by helping the body absorb calcium and phosphorous, two of the basic building blocks of bone. We get vitamin D from the food we eat, and our bodies also make it when our skin is exposed to the sun. Without enough vitamin D, bones can grow too slowly and become soft, weak, or deformed.

Besides aiding bone health, vitamin D supports the brain, muscles, and immune system. It helps the body make new cells and fight off infection. It also reduces inflammation.

Vitamin D deficiency can occur in people who don't get enough vitamin D in their diet, have limited exposure to sunlight, have kidney or liver disease, are obese, or have conditions or take medicines that prevent their bodies from absorbing enough vitamin D. Vitamin D deficiency is more common in people who don't eat or drink dairy foods.