Lack of Vitamin D May Contribute to Chronic Pain

Several recent studies have shown a link between low levels of vitamin D and chronic pain. A quick search of the internet brings up several different studies, all showing some relationship between inadequate vitamin D and chronic pain.
Low vitamin D might be a direct cause of pain, or it’s possible that it may make existing pain worse.

Let the Sun Shine In

The human body is easily able to produce vitamin D, when the skin is exposed to the sun. It’s a little more difficult for darker skinned folks, but it still happens. The problem is we tend to spend a lot of time indoors,  or we were a lot of clothes, so very little of our skin gets sun exposure. Also sun screen does not work in our favor, when it comes to vitamin D. In the late fall and winter,  it’s tough to get enough sun exposure, to supply our vitamin D needs. Even in the summer it can be a challenge for people who still need to spend a lot of time indoors, or use a lot os sunscreen.

Supplements to the Rescue

The good news is you can get vitamin D from supplements. There are some foods that contain vitamin D, including vitamin D fortified foods. This however may not be enough for some people. Most multi-vitamin formulas contain some vitamin D, but again for some people, this may not be enough. Extra vitamin D may be needed. Warning: Too Much Vitamin D Can be Toxic. That’s why it’s important to have your Vitamin D levels checked. A blood test will tell you right where you are at. Then you can make an intelligent decision about how much to take, without overdosing.

Tell Us Your Story

If you are taking vitamin D and have had some success at improving your chronic pain let us know about it. Use the comment form below to tell us your story. We would also like to hear your opinion on the benefits of sunshine.