Soaking up those rays may not be enough for these particular conditions.

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How convenient it is to get one of your daily vitamins from the sun.

In addition, vitamin D supports healthy immune function, which is top of mind during the winter months.

a photo of a hand holding a few vitamin D supplement pills with a glass of water

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Maintaining optimal levels of vitamin D can also contribute to an overall sense of well-being.

Getting a sufficient amount of vitamin D can also help to reduce inflammation in the body.

Many of us are not getting enough vitamin D daily from sun exposure.

Other factors, such as season or even the environment, can also cause deficient levels.

8 Conditions That May Increase the Risk of Vitamin D Deficiency

1.

Aging

As you age, you undergo a process of adding and losing bone density and mass.

Osteoporosis and Osteopenia

Your body constantly breaks down and rebuilds new bones as you age.

It plays a crucial role in keeping a homeostatic balance of important structural minerals, calcium and phosphorus.

These conditions make it difficult to digest and absorb certain nutrients.

Research has linked low serum vitamin D concentrations with potentially developing nonalcoholic fatty liver disease.

Depression

Low vitamin D levels have been linked to increased symptoms of mood disorders like depression, says Chaudhry.

Vitamin D plays a crucial role in fetal development, bone health and immune function.

Pregnant women often have increased demands for vitamin D to support the growing fetus and maintain their own health.

A 2020 review inCurrent Opinion in Obstetrics and Gynecologypoints out that vitamin D supplementation may be wise during pregnancy.

A vitamin D-rich diet and supplement routine can be a necessary part of treatment, says Chaudhry.

Adults 71 and over should get 20 micrograms (800 IU).

That said, the amount of vitamin D you should take from a supplement depends on many factors.