www.womanthismonth.com 97 July-August 2015 showcase Vitamin D is essential for strong bones and muscles in addition to general health and well being. “The ultraviolet radiation from the sun produces vitamin D in the body and is the best natural source for it,” says Dr Hecham Harb, internal medicine and endocrinology consultant at Royal Bahrain Hospital. Some people are more prone to suffer from vitamin D deficiency than others. For example: people with naturally dark skin; people with little or no sun exposure due to lifestyle such as those with restricted movement due to ageing, disabilities, health issues or even due to their occupation; people who cover themselves for religious or cultural reasons; those who avoid sun exposure for cosmetic or health reasons (such as having a high risk of skin cancer) and long-term hospitalised patients. Additionally, people with medical conditions or taking medications affecting vitamin D metabolism can also become deficient in it as well as nursing babies whose mothers have low vitamin D or who experienced a deficiency during pregnancy. “Vitamin D deficiency may not result in any obvious symptoms but, if left untreated, it can increase the risk of muscle aches (general pains) and fragile bones,” explains Dr Harb. “Moreover, vitamin D deficiency is also linked to an increased risk of diabetes, heart diseases, mental health conditions, altered immunity and various types of cancers. Given the risks, vitamin D levels cannot be left unmonitored.” Bahrain has a high incidence of vitamin D deficiencies but, if detected early, vitamin D levels can be increased through supplements and other treatments. It is a simple blood test, available at Royal Bahrain Hospital, at a special price of BD18. Call 17 246-800 for appointments and more information. Living in a hot climate can make you shy away from the sun but it is the best source of Vitamin D and its deficiency can lead to various health problems. ROYAL BAHRAIN HOSPITAL VITAMIN D DEFICIENCY Dr Hecham Harb Vitamin D levels can be increased through supplements and other treatments. Royal Bahrain Hospital @RoyalBahrainHospital |www.royalbahrainhospital.com Department of Dermatology & Cosmetology
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