Vitamin D deficiency: anyone had this?
I have had bad health issues for years. I would every once in a while tell my GP who then said it was all in my head, it was stress, it was the traumas. I told them I didn't go outside and didn't live and eat healthily, but nothing was done, they have a 'next' mentality so I recently switched GP. He immediately sent me to the lab for bloodwork. Not only that: the results came in not even two hours later!
I was diagnosed with major vitamin D deficiency. There are weird and very off values concerning muscle and mass as well, which only proves what I wrote about a while ago: I have lost so much muscle due to depression and only sitting on the sofa with the laptop for work. I haven't been outside in years, living an online life that was a bit easier to manage, avoiding extra stimuli that would create flare-ups of the traumas I worked on during therapy (which is still ongoing).
My major concern is: can the damage of this deficiency be reversed? I have had so many complaints about my health for YEARS that now seem to come together. I was so depressed for so long, have tingles and strange sensations all over my body especially in my legs, I can't concentrate and focus, am very forgetful, have headaches, high blood pressure and my heart doesn't even react well to the medication anymore. I am, all things considered, quite the mess.
Does anyone here have any experience with this?
I hardly go outside, I know I should get some sun, but this is not yet possible for me (too stressed, too much happened). I am a mess! I used to be outgoing and moderately active a few years ago but something bad happened and I'm working through it with help, until that time I won't go outside, but I think I may be getting there.
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She has one, but not sure anyone can force her to take the meds. She can pass any eval and discuss matters with her doctor with questions and opinions. I interject my input, but normally she listens to him. At least initially. At the next visit, I’m going to suggest a accountability followup that she does with a PA virtually to report compliance. Of course, maybe it’s not the B12. Blood tests will confirm that.
You can take Vit D supplements.
After I had a stroke six years ago, my time outdoors was greatly reduced.
My doctor recommended a vitamin D supplement, 5000iu per day.
I started feeling better pretty quickly.
Why not give that a try and see if it helps you?
I’m not sure who the posts upthread are directed to, but I was posting about my mom. She has Vitamin D and B12 deficiencies. Since I posted, she has gone into the hospital. She has had a lot of tests. She is being evaluated for inpatient rehab tomorrow. I hope she goes.
Has anyone had B12 affect their heart? My mom is in the hospital. As I described above, she was having a lot of symptoms. Probably going to rehab due to immobility from hospital.. She says the doctor has ordered referral to a cardiologist. Concerned about heart issue, which she has never had before. So, I’m wondering if it’s neuropathy that has caused it.
No entiendo cual es el posible problema causado por B12.
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You're definitely not alone in this, and I’m really glad you pushed for that second opinion. What you’re experiencing makes sense given what we now know about vitamin D. It isn’t just about bones anymore — we now understand that low levels can influence everything from mood and energy to nerve function and blood pressure regulation.
Those tingling sensations, memory problems, even the worsening response to medications — all of that can show up when deficiency goes on for a long time. And yes, many of these symptoms can improve once your levels are restored. It might take some time, especially if it’s been going on for years, but the body is remarkably resilient when you start giving it what it needs.
Vitamin D plays a role in how we feel emotionally, too. There’s growing research connecting low levels with depression and brain fog — so it’s not surprising you felt so low. Getting your vitamin D up with the right dose (ideally with your doctor monitoring along the way) can often help with energy, focus, and emotional clarity. Some people also benefit from checking their B12 and magnesium at the same time, since deficiencies in those can overlap in symptoms.
Just remember: healing takes time, but you’re doing the right things now. You’ve taken the first step — keep going. Your body is responding, even if it's slow. Keep working with your new doctor, and don’t hesitate to ask for ongoing support. You're worth the care and the time it takes to get back to yourself.
Update. My mom says she’s taking 1000 units if Vitamin D3 her doctor prescribed. Her level was 14. Her B12 was within normal limits, but declining rapidly. Since she stopped regular injections it’ll be low again within months. But, we are focusing on the D right now. She seems better physically. She’s in PT and working on her mobility. She says she wants to regain it, but is not very motivated. Her sleep has improved.
Ok
Vit D
I take 50000 units 2/wk not mg
Many do
B12- I have injections if B12 is at 200
Newest research my Dr says is to teach or keep at 700-900
I bought some cod liver in a can because it has over 400% of the recommended daily Vitamin D per serving. It has been eaten in the Nordic countries and Iceland for centuries as I believe they do not have the sun angle to generate much Vitamin D. One serving is like 260 calories, mostly from fat, good fat I believe. To me the taste it's quite good, similar to a liver pâté, but it's not something that I would call delicious and would not have it everyday. It can be eaten plain as a side dish, spread on toasted bread or can be the main course. It used to be never be found in the US but now you can buy it online easily. It sells for about $4.00 per can (2 servings).
As to B12 I just found out that Grape Nut Flakes has 100% of the recommended daily per serving.