Vitamin D deficiency in men: how does it manifest itself and how to compensate?

Vitamin D (also known as cholecalciferol) is primarily known for being required for the absorption of phosphorus and calcium needed by bones and teeth. But this is not the only biological role of cholecalciferol: it improves the condition of the skin, is involved in a variety of processes - from muscle contraction to emotional reactions; needed for normal sleep and immune system function. In addition, vitamin D also has purely “male” functions.

Why does a man's body need vitamin D?

Vitamin D is involved in the functioning of the male reproductive system:

• Required for normal prostate function. Prevents the proliferation of prostate cells, which reduces the risk of prostate hyperplasia.
• Protects against prostatitis, as it is an antioxidant and reduces inflammation in prostate tissue.
• Regulates testosterone levels. Vitamin D interacts with receptors in cells that are responsible for the production of testosterone. Studies have shown that testosterone levels are directly related to the supply of vitamin D. Men with cholecalciferol deficiency had lower testosterone levels than men with normal levels of vitamin D in the body.
• Vitamin D behaves in many ways like a hormone, participates in the regulation of sperm maturation, is necessary for the formation of sperm with a normal structure, and improves their motility.

In turn, a lack of vitamin D in men negatively affects prostate health and fertility, that is, the ability to conceive a child.

Vitamin D deficiency: prevention and treatment

Vitamin D deficiency increases the risk of developing diabetes, hypertension, heart failure, Alzheimer's disease, common forms of cancer, autoimmune and inflammatory diseases, and immune dysfunction.
According to numerous studies, vitamin D deficiency occurs in half of the world's population. Almost every cell in the body has a special docking site for vitamin D on its surface - this is the VDR receptor (vitamin D receptor). Such receptors are found in almost all organs and tissues; their highest concentration is observed in the cells of the central nervous system, adipose tissue, cells of the immune system, muscles, pancreas, and tissues of the reproductive system. The uniqueness of vitamin D is that it acts directly on cellular DNA through its receptor. It also affects the concentration of hormones, growth and inflammatory factors, numerous proteins and, of course, the level of calcium in the blood. Vitamin D controls more than 200 genes, but it is believed that this number actually reaches 5,000 genes. It is precisely because of its direct effect on the regulation of gene function that vitamin D is considered not a vitamin, but a hormone.

The term “vitamin D” combines several substances similar in chemical structure: vitamin D2 – ergocalciferol

, formed under the influence of sunlight mainly in plants, vitamin D3 -
cholecalciferol
, formed under the influence of sunlight in the body of humans and animals. Natural forms of vitamin D that play an important role in human life are vitamin D2 (ergocalciferol) and vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol). It is these compounds that are similar in chemical structure that are currently referred to in clinical practice as “vitamin D.” Vitamin D is a fat-soluble substance and is initially a biologically inactive compound. Activation of vitamin D and the implementation of all its biological effects occurs after the formation of active metabolites: calcidiol in the liver and calcitriol in the kidneys.

Sources of vitamin D

The main source of vitamin D (cholecalciferol) is the sun, only 20% of it comes from foods (cod liver, mackerel, milk, eggs, butter, Atlantic herring, salmon, beef liver). For sufficient synthesis of vitamin D in the skin, only UVB rays are needed. The synthesis of vitamin D in the skin is greatly reduced in the presence of clouds, fog, dust, and air pollution. In northern countries in the summer, you can get enough vitamin D by spending 30 minutes a day in the sun (between 10:00 and 14:00), exposing at least 40% of your body surface to the sun. UVB radiation does not penetrate glass or clothing. Sunscreens with a sun protection factor of more than 8 block the synthesis of vitamin D. It should also be remembered that excessive exposure to the sun leads to photoaging and sunburn, active sun increases the risk of developing melanoma, so the option of replenishing vitamin D deficiency by exposure to direct sunlight in for a long time is dangerous.

Why has this problem become so urgent now?

Recently, people's lifestyle and nutrition have changed dramatically. Most of us consume meat from animals, poultry, and fish raised in captivity. Consumption of sweet carbonated drinks and fructose reduces the level of vitamin D in the blood plasma. Many medications (statins, glucocorticosteroids, calcium channel blockers, phenobarbital, etc.), drinking water or using toothpaste with a high fluoride content reduce the level of vitamin D. Often, people’s lifestyle and diet do not leave a chance for the body to produce the proper amount of vitamin D. Vitamin D increases calcium absorption in adults and children by 80%. Maintaining an optimal level of vitamin D (25 (OH) D) in the blood of 30-80 ng/ml reduces the risks of developing cancer, cardiovascular, infectious diseases, and pathologies of the musculoskeletal system. As a result of hypovitaminosis in childhood, the formation of peak bone mass is impaired, which will subsequently affect the strength of bone tissue throughout life. The problem of vitamin D deficiency is relevant for both children and adults (especially in old age). Thus, in Belarus, D-hypovitaminosis is observed in 73.7% of women and 61.7% of men. Severe, long-term vitamin D deficiency results in hypocalcemia and secondary hyperparathyroidism, which leads to increased urinary phosphate loss, bone demineralization, and ultimately osteomalacia (a condition in which bones become thin, deformed, and break easily). Vitamin D deficiency is especially dangerous for women during menopause, since at this time the level of sex hormones decreases, which leads to bone loss. Hypovitaminosis accelerates this process, and as a result, the development of osteoporosis occurs (a disease associated with the loss of calcium in the bones, causing the bones to become more fragile and easily damaged). This condition is accompanied by pain in the joints, large bones and frequent fractures, which in old age can be critical and cannot be fully restored.

The effect of vitamin D on the prevention of cancer

As already mentioned, vitamin D has regulatory activity in relation to a large number of genes, including those affecting the cell cycle, immunity and metabolism. Recently, new data have emerged on the connection between an increased risk of developing cancer and a decrease in vitamin D levels in the blood. Uncontrolled cell division and any other proliferation without differentiation with mutations can lead to oncology. Vitamin D inhibits proliferation and stimulates cell differentiation, prevents the growth of cancer cells, which makes it effective in the prevention and treatment of breast, ovarian, prostate, rectal, stomach, bladder, esophagus, kidney, lung, pancreas, brain cancer, leukemia, myeloma, lymphoma.

Vitamin D and immunity

Vitamin D is a powerful immunomodulator; it strengthens innate immunity and prevents the development of autoimmune diseases. There is a direct connection between decreased vitamin D levels and frequent acute respiratory infections. Vitamin D protects against respiratory infections by increasing levels of antimicrobial peptides in the lungs. The immunomodulatory activity of vitamin D is supported by data from large clinical studies, which show the high effectiveness and safety of topical vitamin D medications in the treatment of psoriasis. Also in this literature, there is a connection between low levels of vitamin D and atopic dermatitis, severe bronchial asthma, rheumatoid arthritis, autoimmune thyroid diseases, and multiple sclerosis.

Vitamin D and the cardiovascular system

Experimental clinical data suggest a connection between vitamin D metabolism and the state of the cardiovascular system, including the development and progression of atherosclerosis. The pathogenesis of some forms of arterial hypertension (AH) involves excessive activation of the renin-angiotensin system. Adequate vitamin D levels reduce the expression of the gene encoding renin. The risk of developing hypertension is reduced.

The effect of vitamin D deficiency on the development of diabetes mellitus

Vitamin D deficiency contributes to the development of insulin resistance. In people with full-blown type 2 diabetes, some studies show a beneficial effect of vitamin D supplementation, especially with calcium, on glycemic control and insulin resistance.

Vitamin D and general psycho-emotional state, as well as the condition of hair and skin

Vitamin D is involved in the regulation of tyrosine hydroxylase, an enzyme that is necessary for the production of dopamine, adrenaline and norepinephrine. The optimal level of these hormones is the most important condition for good mood and well-being, therefore the “sunshine vitamin” protects against depression and memory problems. The condition of hair and skin is also highly dependent on vitamin D. It is involved in the formation of the stratum corneum barrier, proliferation and differentiation of keratinocytes, stimulates and regulates the production of antimicrobial peptides in the skin.

Vitamin D for reproductive health and for pregnant women

The vitamin D profile and the course of pregnancy have been studied for a long time. There was a decrease in the development of atopic dermatitis in children whose mothers did not experience vitamin D deficiency during pregnancy. It has also been noted that vitamin D regulates the gene responsible for converting tryptophan into serotonin. Serotonin plays a critical role in fetal brain development. Vitamin D deficiency reduces the production of serotonin, which can cause neurological defects. The importance of vitamin D for women's health should be discussed in more detail. Vitamin D receptors are found in the tissues of the ovaries, endometrium, fallopian tubes, and placenta.

It is necessary for the synthesis of sex hormones (testosterone, estradiol, progesterone), normalizes the sensitivity of the ovaries and endometrium to sex hormones, and is involved in the regulation of the menstrual cycle. Vitamin D deficiency in women is associated with a high risk of developing endometriosis, fibroids and polycystic ovary syndrome. Vitamin D also affects male fertility. The prostate gland, spermatogonia, and seminal vesicles have receptors for this vitamin and enzymes for its use. In men with low levels of vitamin D, the total number of sperm, and especially their motility, decreases. Taking vitamin D can significantly reduce the risk of developing prostate cancer.

Who is at risk for vitamin D deficiency?

• people over 60 years of age;
• people with dark skin or who overuse sun protection products with a high protection factor;
• people who, for various reasons, are exposed to insufficient sunlight, such as those living north of the 35th parallel;
• patients taking medications that can accelerate catabolism and actively destroy vitamin D (for example, anticonvulsants, glucocorticosteroids, rifampicin, oral anticoagulants);
• obese persons (body mass index 30 or more);
• persons leading an “office” lifestyle;
• vegetarians or people who do not consume foods containing vitamin D;
• persons with kidney, liver and/or gastrointestinal diseases;
• pregnant and breastfeeding women;
• patients with chronic diseases of the intestines, liver and kidneys.

As an independent pathological condition, vitamin D deficiency is diagnosed extremely rarely, only based on the results of a specific blood test.
But at the same time, more than 70% of the population lacks vitamin D. Taking vitamin D is recommended for the purpose of:

• prevention (for healthy people with vitamin D levels (25(OH)D) within the optimal range - 30-80 ng/ml),
• treatment of D deficiency (for people with risk factors and/or existing vitamin D deficiency (25(OH)D less than 30 ng/ml).

The dose and duration of treatment with vitamin D is determined by:

• severity of D-deficiency;
• age, body weight;
• taking medications that affect vitamin D metabolism.

Therapeutic doses of vitamin D for adults start at 2000 IU per day.
All possible vitamin D dosage options are presented in the D3-CAPS line produced by the Minskintercaps Unitary Enterprise. The entire line (D3-CAPS ULTRA 500 IU, D3-CAPS 2000 IU and D3-CAPS 5000 IU, IU, D3-CAPS MAXIMA 50000 IU) is developed for the treatment and prevention of vitamin D hypovitaminosis in adults and children, taking into account international national recommendations, with with the participation of leading healthcare specialists.

To treat vitamin D deficiency, it is advisable to use drugs with a higher content of cholecalciferol, for example D3-CAPS, which is available in two dosages: 2000 IU and 5000 IU. Application of D3-KAPS 2000 ME

Treatment of vitamin D deficiency in adults and adolescents over 12 years of age: 1 capsule per day for moderate D deficiency (25 (OH) D level - 10-20 ng/ml) for up to 6-8 weeks, followed by laboratory monitoring 25 (OH) ) D in the blood to resolve the issue of transferring to prophylactic doses.
For persons over 60 years of age for the prevention and complex treatment of osteoporosis: D3-CAPS 2000 ME
, 1 capsule per day.

D3-CAPS 2000 IU
– daily dose in one capsule for the prevention of low-traumatic fractures in the elderly in combination therapy of osteoporosis. If there is insufficient calcium intake from food, it is necessary to use calcium medications to meet the daily requirement for this element.

Application of D3-KAPS 5000 ME

Treatment of vitamin D deficiency in adults and adolescents from 12-18 years of age: Taking 1 capsule per day
D3-CAPS 5000 IU
with subsequent laboratory monitoring of 25 (OH) D in the blood once every 3 months to decide on transfer to preventive doses or continuation of treatment.

D3-CAPS 5000 IU
– daily dose of vitamin D in one capsule for patients at high risk for D deficiency (poor absorption in the gastrointestinal tract, obesity, chronic liver and kidney diseases). It is important to take into account the fact that for diseases/conditions accompanied by impaired absorption of vitamin D, daily vitamin D intake is more preferable in order to optimize absorption. The recommended dose of cholecalciferol for the treatment of vitamin D deficiency should be 2-3 times the daily requirement of the age group (minimum 6000-10000 IU/day).

D3-CAPS MAXIMA 50,000 IU

Treatment of vitamin D deficiency in adults (from 18 years of age): - Treatment of severe D deficiency (25 (OH) D level < 10 ng/ml) - 1 capsule per week (laboratory monitoring of serum 25 (OH) D once every 3 months ). — Treatment of moderate D deficiency in adults (level 25 (OH) D – 10-20 ng/ml) – 1 capsule per month (laboratory monitoring of serum 25 (OH) D once every 3 months). — When prescribing vitamin D3 at a dose of 5000 IU or more per day, after reaching the target level of 25 (OH) D (30 ng/ml), the patient is transferred to maintenance doses of vitamin D 1000-2000 IU per day.

Contraindications to taking D3-CAPS:

— hypervitaminosis of vitamin D;
- hypersensitivity to vitamin D or drug components; - hypercalcemia and/or hypercalciuria; — nephrolithiasis and/or nephrocalcinosis; - severe renal failure; - pseudohypoparathyroidism (since in the phase of normal sensitivity to vitamin D, the need for it may decrease, which leads to the risk of delayed overdose. In such cases, it is better to use other vitamin D derivatives that allow more precise dosage regulation). 17 Feb 2021
Previous News Feed Next

How does vitamin D deficiency manifest in men?

It is possible to accurately determine that a man’s body lacks vitamin D only based on a blood test. There are no specific manifestations of calciferol deficiency; there are only indirect symptoms:

• Frequent colds.
• General fatigue, fatigue.
• Disruption of circadian biorhythms and, as a result, difficulty falling asleep.
• Bad mood.
• Pain in joints, muscles.

Unfortunately, it is men who, as a rule, do not tend to pay attention to bad mood or fatigue, so they often suffer from a lack of vitamin D without even knowing it.

conclusions

Due to the climatic conditions in which we live, the human body does not receive the required amount of vitamin D, which is very important for men's health. Vitamin D3 for men is a source of energy, male strength and good health of the body, therefore, in the current conditions, it is necessary to try to get as much of it as possible from food, walk outside or take specialized medications that can cover the daily requirement of this nutrient.

What to do if you have a lack of vitamin D?

There are several simple but effective recommendations:

• Get out in the sun more often. Vitamin D is the only vitamin that can be produced in the human body, but for this, the skin must receive sufficient “portions” of ultraviolet radiation.
• Enrich your diet with dairy products, eggs, fatty fish (salmon, sardines, herring), cereals, and citrus fruits - these are record holders for vitamin D content.
• If you cannot get the required dose of vitamin D from food and exposure to the sun, buy a drug with a high content of cholecalciferol at the pharmacy.

It is very important to eliminate vitamin D deficiency if a man plans to become a father, since a lack of this micronutrient can seriously reduce the likelihood of conception. Of course, during the period of preparation for conception, it is no less important for a man’s body than vitamin D to receive other substances in sufficient quantities: L-carnitine, zinc, folic acid and vitamin E. They are required for the maturation of motile and viable sperm of the correct shape. The source of these important substances is Speroton (detailed product information is provided here). Its intake can be combined with vitamin D intake.

THIS IS NOT AN ADVERTISING. THE MATERIAL WAS PREPARED WITH THE PARTICIPATION OF EXPERTS.

Daily norm of biologically active substance

The body's need for vitamin D depends on many factors. These are age, weight, area of ​​residence, medical history and lifestyle. A greater deficiency in calciferol is observed in the elderly and people living in the northern regions.

To prevent vitamin deficiency, you should consume fish oil. It can be used by children from 4 months. The duration of the course is 2-3 months, then a break. If necessary, repeat use as prescribed by a doctor.

The daily norm of the biologically active substance is 200-600 IU.