Which Vitamin Causes Muscle Weakness?
Low levels of several vitamins can contribute to muscle weakness. While many vitamins play a role in overall health and muscle function, vitamin D deficiency is frequently associated with this symptom.
A deficiency in vitamin D can lead to muscle weakness, alongside other symptoms like bone pain and fatigue. This is because vitamin D plays a crucial role in calcium and phosphorus absorption, which are essential for muscle function. When vitamin D levels are insufficient, the body cannot properly absorb these minerals, resulting in muscle weakness. Several sources confirm this link:
- Cleveland Clinic: States that muscle weakness, aches, and cramps are symptoms of vitamin D deficiency. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/15050-vitamin-d-vitamin-d-deficiency
- Yale Medicine: Lists muscle pain and weakness as symptoms of vitamin D deficiency. https://www.yalemedicine.org/conditions/vitamin-d-deficiency
- Everyday Health: Includes muscle aches or weakness among the vague symptoms of vitamin D deficiency. https://www.everydayhealth.com/hs/guide-to-essential-nutrients/common-nutrient-deficiencies/
- Mayo Clinic (Rickets): Highlights muscle weakness as a symptom in children with rickets, a condition often caused by vitamin D deficiency. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/rickets/symptoms-causes/syc-20351943
- Research Article: A study highlights that vitamin D deficiency can manifest as proximal muscle weakness before biochemical signs appear. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3690793/
Other Vitamins and Muscle Weakness
While vitamin D is a prominent example, other vitamin deficiencies can also contribute to muscle weakness:
- Vitamin E deficiency: Can cause muscle weakness and coordination problems. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/321800
- Vitamin B12 deficiency: Associated with muscle weakness and neurological symptoms. https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/vitamin-b12-or-folate-deficiency-anaemia/symptoms/
It's crucial to note that muscle weakness can stem from various factors, and vitamin deficiencies are just one possibility. If you experience muscle weakness, consult a doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment.
