In a national comparison, most people in the Hanseatic city are undersupplied with vitamin D. According to an analysis by the Barmer health insurance company, almost 94,000 people in Hamburg are receiving medical treatment for a vitamin D deficiency. That is around 5.1 percent of the population (nationwide: 2.9 percent). Accordingly, women are significantly more affected with 6.6 percent (nationwide 3.9 percent) than men with 3.5 percent (1.9 percent).
Vitamin D is important for the bones and other metabolic processes in the body. Reasons for a deficiency are usually a one-sided diet or an increased need for nutrients in certain life or age situations. Our body actually produces vitamin D when it is exposed to the sun. In winter it is of course much worse.
Vitamin D deficiency can lead to depression
A nutritional deficiency usually does not make itself felt at all or only through general complaints such as tiredness or a higher susceptibility to infections. Depressive moods can also occur. Vitamin supplements can help. Before treating yourself, however, you should first consult a doctor. It is difficult to get enough vitamin D through your diet. But: 10 to 15 minutes in the sun can be enough to stimulate vitamin D production.
You might also be interested in: Major health insurance company criticizes: Many women take “risky” pills
In Germany, older people belong to the risk group for a nutrient deficiency. However, many people lose their healthy feeling for hunger, appetite and thirst in old age. In addition, with increasing age, more medication must be taken, which in turn can affect the absorption of nutrients. An underlying disease itself can also have a negative effect on the supply of nutrients.