Sure, steroids can help with conditions like asthma, Crohn’s disease, and lupus. But did you know that they might be zapping your body of an essential nutrient? We’re talking about vitamin D. That sunshine vitamin that’s crucial for healthy bones, immune function, and plenty more.
Now, I’m guessing you don’t want to trade one health issue for another, right? So, listen to what researchers from the Albert Einstein College of Medicine are saying.
These folks found out that folks who take steroids are running low on vitamin D. Low enough that it’s got the experts recommending you get that vitamin D checked if you’re on steroids.
Dr. Amy Skversky, an assistant professor at Einstein, put it simply, “When doctors write that prescription for steroids and they’re sending patients for lab tests, they should also get the vitamin D level measured.”
See, when you’re low on vitamin D, you’ve got more than just a bad day. You could be looking at weak bones and a risk of rickets in children. And it’s not just bones; vitamin D plays a part in muscle function and how your immune system fights off those nasty bacteria and viruses.
Now here’s where it gets even trickier. The whole steroid and vitamin D link? It’s a two-way street. If you’ve got some chronic inflammation or autoimmune conditions, your body might need more vitamin D in the first place.
What to do? Get some sun, for starters. About 15–20 minutes of midday sun can do wonders for most people. But don’t overdo it; no one’s asking for a sunburn here. If you can’t get enough rays, think about vitamin D-rich foods like fatty fish, fortified dairy products, or supplements.
But remember, before you go popping vitamin D like candy, talk to your doctor, especially if you’re on steroids. The last thing you want is to overdo it and end up in a whole new health pickle.
So, stay smart, get checked, and make sure you’re keeping your vitamin D levels where they need to be for good health.
