Vitamin D Deficiency – An Epidemic in Delhi
Despite abundant sunshine, Vitamin D deficiency is extremely prevalent in Delhi and across urban India. Studies show 70–90% of urban Indians are Vitamin D deficient. At Dashvanth Healthcare Delhi, we test for Vitamin D and B12 and provide supplementation guidance.
Vitamin D (25-OH Vitamin D)
Normal Levels
- Deficient: Below 20 ng/mL
- Insufficient: 20–29 ng/mL
- Sufficient: 30–100 ng/mL
- Toxic: Above 100 ng/mL
Why Delhi Has So Much Deficiency
- Limited outdoor sun exposure (indoor lifestyle, working hours)
- Darker skin pigmentation requires more sun exposure
- Air pollution blocking UV rays
- Vegetarian diet (few natural food sources)
- Using sunscreen
Symptoms of Vitamin D Deficiency
- Bone pain and muscle weakness
- Fatigue and tiredness
- Mood changes and depression
- Frequent infections (impaired immunity)
- Hair loss
- Rickets in children (severe deficiency)
Supplementation
- Deficiency: 60,000 IU weekly for 8–12 weeks, then maintenance
- Maintenance: 1,000–2,000 IU daily
- Test again after 3 months of treatment
Vitamin B12 Deficiency
Normal Levels
- Deficient: Below 200 pg/mL
- Borderline: 200–300 pg/mL
- Normal: Above 300 pg/mL
Who is at Risk?
- Strict vegetarians and vegans (B12 only in animal foods)
- Elderly (reduced absorption)
- On metformin (diabetes medication)
- Gastrointestinal surgery or disease
Symptoms
- Fatigue, weakness, shortness of breath (anaemia)
- Tingling or numbness in hands and feet (peripheral neuropathy)
- Memory problems and cognitive decline
- Sore tongue
- Depression
Treatment
- Oral: Methylcobalamin 1500 mcg daily
- Injections: Monthly B12 injection if oral absorption poor
Vitamin D and B12 testing at Dashvanth Healthcare Delhi: 011-41670042.
