Always Tired? Fatigue Could Be a Sign of Vitamin D Deficiency

If you’re constantly feeling worn out, sluggish, or low on energy—especially during colder seasons or after long indoor stretches—your fatigue could be a sign of vitamin D deficiency. This common condition affects millions of adults, especially over age 40, and often goes unnoticed until symptoms start to interfere with daily life.

Vitamin D plays a critical role in energy production, immune function, and bone strength. And when levels are low, your body feels it.

Common Signs of Vitamin D Deficiency

Fatigue is one of the earliest and most overlooked symptoms. But other signs to watch for include:

• Chronic tiredness or low energy
• Muscle weakness or cramps
• Frequent illnesses or slow recovery
• Bone pain or stiffness
• Mood changes (depression or irritability)

If you’re experiencing several of these symptoms at once, especially persistent fatigue that doesn’t improve with rest, it’s time to speak with a provider.

What Causes Vitamin D Deficiency?

There are several reasons your body may not be getting or using enough vitamin D:

• Limited sunlight exposure – Especially in winter or for those who stay indoors most of the day
• Darker skin tones – Higher melanin can reduce vitamin D production
• Aging – Your skin produces less vitamin D as you get older
• Digestive issues – Conditions like Crohn’s or celiac disease impair absorption
• Kidney or liver dysfunction – These organs help activate vitamin D
• Obesity – Vitamin D can get trapped in fat cells, making it less usable

How to Increase Vitamin D and Boost Your Energy

1. Get Sunlight (Safely)
Try to spend 15–30 minutes outside each day, especially in the morning. Natural sunlight helps your body produce vitamin D, which may help improve mood and energy.

2. Eat Vitamin D-Rich Foods
Incorporate foods like:

• Fatty fish (salmon, tuna)
• Egg yolks
• Fortified milk, cereal, or orange juice
• UV-exposed mushrooms

3. Consider Supplements
If your levels are significantly low, your doctor may recommend a vitamin D supplement—especially for older adults or those with absorption issues. Don’t start supplements without testing first.

When to See a Doctor About Fatigue or Vitamin D Levels

If you feel tired all the time despite getting enough sleep, it’s worth getting your vitamin D levels checked. This is especially important for:

• Adults over 40
• People who rarely go outdoors
• Those with bone pain, frequent illness, or mood changes

The Primary Care Providers at BASS Medical Group can order a simple blood test and provide personalized treatment based on your lifestyle, risk factors, and lab results.

Get Tested for Vitamin D Deficiency at BASS Medical Group

Fatigue doesn’t have to be your norm. Whether it’s a minor deficiency or part of a larger health issue, our team can help you get answers and feel like yourself again.

We offer full-service care—including DEXA scans for bone health, nutrition counseling, and personalized supplement guidance—in Walnut Creek and across the Bay Area.

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FAQ

Q1: Can vitamin D deficiency cause fatigue even if I’m getting enough sleep?
Yes. Low vitamin D can disrupt how your muscles and immune system function, which may leave you feeling tired, weak, or unmotivated despite sleeping well.

Q2: How long does it take to feel better after starting vitamin D supplements?
Most people notice improvement within a few weeks of consistent supplementation, but it can take 2–3 months for levels to fully normalize, depending on severity.