A Comparative Analysis of Vitamin D Deficiency-Related Symptoms and Disorders among Vegetarian and Non-Vegetarian Individuals
Namrata Behera
Department of Home Science, Rama Devi Women’s University, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India.
Sukanya Chakravorty
Department of Home Science (Food and Nutrition), Mahila Mahavidyalaya, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India.
Suryamani Patro *
Department of Home Science, Rama Devi Women’s University, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India.
Dibya Shikha Mohanta
Department of Home Science, Rama Devi Women’s University, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India.
Tanya Yadav
Department of Home Science (Food and Nutrition), Mahila Mahavidyalaya, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Aims: To analyze vitamin D deficiency-related symptoms and disorders among vegetarian and non-vegetarian individuals.
Introduction: Vitamin D is a fat-soluble essential micronutrient crucial for maintenance of bone health, dental strength, immune function and overall well-being. Although Indians are living in a tropical climate with an abundance of sunlight, vitamin D deficiency symptoms and related disorders are prevalent across the population. The comparative cross-sectional study assessed the prevalence of vitamin D deficiency-related symptoms and disorders among vegetarian and non-vegetarian adults of rural and urban areas in Varanasi District, Uttar Pradesh, India
Methodology: Samples were selected using simple random sampling method. Data collected from a sample of 200 individuals, i.e.,100 each from both vegetarian and non-vegetarian populations through survey using a structured questionnaire. The collected data were analyzed using SPSS software for statistical findings.
Results: The outcomes revealed that symptoms related to vitamin D deficiency, such as fatigue, Muscle pain, Bone and joint pain are prevalent among both the dietary groups with vegetarians showing slightly higher percentages. However, the overall distribution of deficiency-related symptoms and disorders was similar across both groups. While clinical signs and symptoms provided useful evaluations to study the vitamin D deficiency-related symptoms and disorders, future studies should incorporate serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D/25(OH)D level for a more objective and accurate assessment of vitamin D status to determine the deficiency.
Conclusion: Dietary patterns influence vitamin D intake but, factors such as sun exposure, skin pigmentation and supplement use have greater effects on vitamin D levels. This study underscores the urgent need for public health interventions endorsing screening, adequate sunlight exposure, dietary fortification and supplementation strategies to be applicable for all individuals regardless of their dietary habits.
Keywords: Vitamin D, deficiency symptom, dietary habit, sunlight exposure, public health