Why is there a decline in vitamin D during winter? Orthopedic surgeon explains the hidden effects
Posted on: Nov 04, 2025 15:00 IST | Posted by: Livemint
People in sunny areas often don't acquire sufficiency vitamin D due to occupy schedules, poor diets, medications, or wellness issues such as kidney or liver problems. Vitamin D is produced in the scrape when exposed to sunlight. However, in winter, it becomes more challenging for the body to produce enough due to cold weather, shorter days, and lower sun angles. Sunlight alone isn't enough, so eating foods high in vitamin D, such as fatty fish, egg yolks, and fortified dairy, is beneficial. I also enjoy sunlight in winter because it makes me feel relaxed.
But do you know what happens if you don't get enough vitamin D? To answer this query, Team Health Shots spoke to Dr Jayateerth Kulkarni, an orthopaedic surgeon, to learn about sources and ways to keep healthy vitamin D levels.
Vitamin D deficiency can lead to various health issues. "It can weaken bones and muscles around the joints, leading to pain, stiffness, and cramps. People may also feel tired or have body aches, especially in the knees, lower back, and hips," Dr Jayateerth tells Health Shots. Over time, not enough vitamin D can increase the risk of weak bones (osteoporosis), falls, and joint issues, especially in older adults. Sometimes, people think this pain is just a result of ageing or arthritis, but a lack of vitamin D can often cause it.
The National Institute of Health says you can get vitamin D from these sources:
According to a journal published by the National Institutes of Health, increased Vitamin D levels in the body can cause hypercalcemia, hypercalciuria, and high serum 25(OH)D concentration. In extreme cases, it may lead to renal failure, calcification of soft tissues, cardiac arrhythmias, and even death. Vitamin D toxicity is almost always a result of excessive intakes of vitamin D through supplements. Additionally, it is advisable to take vitamin D within a range of 25 to 100 mcg (1,000–4,000 IU), depending on age.
(Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.)
Global News Perspectives
In today's interconnected world, staying informed about global events is more important than ever. ZisNews provides news coverage from multiple countries, allowing you to compare how different regions report on the same stories. This unique approach helps you gain a broader and more balanced understanding of international affairs. Whether it's politics, business, technology, or cultural trends, ZisNews ensures that you get a well-rounded perspective rather than a one-sided view. Expand your knowledge and see how global narratives unfold from different angles.
Customizable News Feed
At ZisNews, we understand that not every news story interests everyone. That's why we offer a customizable news feed, allowing you to control what you see. By adding keywords, you can filter out unwanted news, blocking articles that contain specific words in their titles or descriptions. This feature enables you to create a personalized experience where you only receive content that aligns with your interests. Register today to take full advantage of this functionality and enjoy a distraction-free news feed.
Like or Comment on News
Stay engaged with the news by interacting with stories that matter to you. Like or dislike articles based on your opinion, and share your thoughts in the comments section. Join discussions, see what others are saying, and be a part of an informed community that values meaningful conversations.
Download the Android App
For a seamless news experience, download the ZisNews Android app. Get instant notifications based on your selected categories and stay updated on breaking news. The app also allows you to block unwanted news, ensuring that you only receive content that aligns with your preferences. Stay connected anytime, anywhere.
Diverse News Categories
With ZisNews, you can explore a wide range of topics, ensuring that you never miss important developments. From Technology and Science to Sports, Politics, and Entertainment, we bring you the latest updates from the world's most trusted sources. Whether you are interested in groundbreaking scientific discoveries, tech innovations, or major sports events, our platform keeps you updated in real-time. Our carefully curated news selection helps you stay ahead, providing accurate and relevant stories tailored to diverse interests.
No comments yet.