Always Tired? Could Vitamin D Deficiency Be the Cause of Your Fatigue?

Feeling Tired More Often Than Usual?

Persistent fatigue is one of the most common — and overlooked — reasons people seek care. If you feel worn out, sluggish, or low on energy despite adequate sleep, vitamin D deficiency may be one possible contributing factor.

Vitamin D plays a role in:

• Muscle and nerve function
• Immune system regulation
• Bone health and strength

When levels are low, some people notice symptoms that gradually affect daily life.

Common Symptoms of Vitamin D Deficiency

Fatigue is often one of the earliest signs, but it is rarely the only one. Other symptoms may include:

• Ongoing low energy or exhaustion
• Muscle weakness, aches, or cramps
• Frequent infections or slower recovery
• Bone pain or stiffness
• Mood changes, such as low mood or irritability

Symptoms can vary widely, and many overlap with other health conditions, which is why testing may be helpful.

What Can Cause Low Vitamin D Levels?

Several factors may contribute to vitamin D deficiency, including:

• Limited sun exposure – Common during winter months or for those who spend most time indoors
• Darker skin tones – Higher melanin can reduce vitamin D production from sunlight
• Age – Skin becomes less efficient at producing vitamin D over time
• Digestive conditions – Such as celiac disease or Crohn’s disease, which can affect absorption
• Kidney or liver conditions – These organs help convert vitamin D into its active form
• Obesity – Vitamin D can be stored in fat tissue, making it less available for use

Because multiple factors may be involved, deficiency is common even in otherwise healthy adults.

Ways to Support Healthy Vitamin D Levels

Treatment depends on your current level, lifestyle, and overall health.

Sunlight (Safely)

Short periods of sun exposure may help some people maintain vitamin D levels, though effectiveness varies based on season, location, and skin type.

Dietary Sources

Foods that contain or are fortified with vitamin D include:

• Fatty fish such as salmon or tuna
• Egg yolks
• Fortified milk, cereals, and juices
• UV-exposed mushrooms

Supplementation

If blood levels are low, a healthcare provider may recommend vitamin D supplementation. Dosage and duration vary, and supplementation is best guided by lab testing rather than guesswork.

When to See a Doctor About Fatigue

Consider speaking with a healthcare provider if you:

• Feel tired most days despite adequate sleep
• Have muscle aches, bone discomfort, or frequent illness
• Spend little time outdoors
• Are over age 40 or have risk factors for deficiency

A simple blood test can help determine whether vitamin D deficiency may be contributing to symptoms — or whether another cause should be explored.

How BASS Medical Group Can Help‍

Primary Care Providers at BASS Medical Group can evaluate fatigue, order appropriate blood tests, and help develop a plan based on your results and overall health.

Our teams also support:

• Bone health evaluations
• Nutrition counseling
• Personalized supplement guidance

To learn more or to schedule an appointment, visit bassmedicalgroup.com or contact your local BASS office.