Everyone has a difficult time falling asleep or staying asleep every once in a while. But when it becomes a chronic issue, it can negatively impact your physical and mental health. The first step in finding relief is nailing down the underlying cause of your sleep issues. Our team at AFC Urgent Care Fountain City wants to share some insight about one potential cause—vitamin D deficiency—as well as some tips for getting the sleep you need.

What Exactly Is the Purpose of Vitamin D?

First, let’s break down exactly what vitamin D does for you. Vitamin D is considered a building block for bone health, since you need it to help your body properly absorb calcium. But vitamin D has also been found to benefit mental health—not having enough can be a risk factor for some mental health conditions, including anxiety and depression.

Effects of Vitamin D Deficiency

• Thinning or brittle bones
• Osteoporosis
• Frequent bone fractures
• Muscle weakness
• Changes in mood

Can Vitamin D Affect Your Sleep?

Now, let’s get done to the main question—studies have found that when a person doesn’t get enough vitamin D, he or she is at an increased risk of sleep issues. Those affected by vitamin D deficiency often get much less than the recommended seven to nine hours of sleep each night. So, what impact does vitamin D have on sleep? Well, when your body has the vitamin D it needs, you’ll experience less pain and inflammation, which can help your body to feel more relaxed at night so that you can get the sleep you need.

Tips for Quality Sleep

• Avoid chemicals that disrupt sleep, such as nicotine, caffeine and alcohol.
• Eat lighter meals at night.
• Stay active.
• Take a hot shower or bath shortly before bedtime.
• Avoid screens one to two hours before bedtime.

Are you having a hard time sleeping? Visit AFC Urgent Care Fountain City today for a medical evaluation! No appointment is necessary.