Vitamin D- deficiency and constipation

Are you wondering how vitamin D deficiency can lead to constipation? How could a vitamin that functions in bone health and calcium absorption cause constipation? 

We are trying to identify different areas that can contribute to constipation.  After gastric sleeve and gastric bypass surgery.

For some, increasing fiber fluids intake may not resolve constipation. As we’ve been discussing, there can be different approaches to deal with constipation. 

But how can an inadequate vitamin cause constipation?

Just have a look at the mechanism of action of this vitamin.

Mechanism of action

Vitamin D is an essential nutrient that we can make from sunlight. Sunlight touches our skin.  Its ultraviolet B (UVB) rays hit cholesterol in our skin cells. It provides the energy to synthesize it within the body. 

The inactive form of vitamin D produced due to sunlight will then go to the liver and kidneys. Kidneys convert this inactive form into the active form. 

Problems linked to vitamin D deficiency

These four issues are linked with a deficiency.

1. Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
2. Inflammatory bowel syndrome (IBS)
3. Obesity 
4. Depression
5. Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) especially in winter

Study linked to functional constipation and vitamin D

This study in 2019, the World Journal of Gastroenterology it was titled, “Chronic functional constipation, strongly linked to vitamin D deficiency.” So this was with patients with motility disorders. 

Patients in this study had low quality of life in psychological tests. This study shows depression and anxiety are common with Vitamin D deficiency. 

Patients struggling with IBD and IBS have higher levels of anxiety and depression. 

This study lacks the factor of obesity but covers the surveys related to the quality of life. These factors correlate with a deficiency.

Depression and anxiety always have to be connected because both impact your mood and ability to connect with the world. 

If  digestive issues may suffer with depression and anxiety. Consequently disturbing your quality of life.

This study observes 86 patients with functional constipation and motility disorders and 86 healthy people. 

Although a small study and the results may not be applicable with large populations, it can be considered in the patients after gastric surgeries.

Personally, I’ve evaluated thousands of Vitamin D levels post gastric sleeve & bypass.  Even though most were supplementing, vitamin D deficiency was still one of the most common deficiencies noted.

Tune in to learn how correcting your vitamin D status may improve your constipation.

If you’re struggling with constipation…

Are you struggling with chronic constipation?  I’d love to work with you!  Check out my packages and schedule a time for a Free chat.

Your future health awaits…