Low vitamin D level in the blood

If you need to know which are the vitamin D reference ranges or you require more information about vitamin D in a blood test, you can visit normal vitamin D in a blood test.

Vitamin D is often called the sunshine vitamin because it is synthesized by the skin when exposed to sunlight.

Low levels of vitamin D in the blood are common during winter, in elderly individuals who do not get regular sunlight exposure, or in countries with limited daylight hours.

A low level of vitamin D can also occur in malabsorption syndromes such as celiac disease or cystic fibrosis. It is also seen in conditions like nephrotic syndrome, where significant amounts of vitamin D are lost in the urine.

Prolonged and severe vitamin D deficiency can affect bone development, causing rickets in children and osteomalacia in adults.

The most common vitamin D blood test measures 25-hydroxy vitamin D [25(OH)D], which is the main circulating form of vitamin D.

Vitamin D [25(OH)D] blood values are usually given in ng/ml but sometimes you can see these values in nmol/l following the International System of Units (SI). In case your values are in nmol/l you can convert them using this tool:

The following diseases can explain a vitamin D [25(OH)D] blood level lower than normal:

You can raise your vitamin D levels by increasing your intake of foods rich in vitamin D. Good options include egg yolks, fatty fish (such as tuna or salmon), fortified dairy products, and cod liver oil. However, the most effective measure is regular sun exposure.

For those with severe deficiency, a doctor may prescribe vitamin D supplements. Several types of oral and intravenous preparations are available.

It is important to obtain a proper diagnosis, as low vitamin D levels could result from malabsorption or kidney problems that are not related to vitamin D intake or sunlight exposure.

The following values are considered to be above the normal range:

IMPORTANT: These levels are expressed in ng/ml. They are an example of a healthy adult of about 45 years old with no known disease with an adequate sunlight exposure and not taking any medication. The ranges can be different depending on the laboratory or on your personal circumstances.