Arthritis Ireland Arthritis Ireland

More than two thirds of Europeans have low vitamin D levels and are leaving themselves at greater risk of developing degenerative bone conditions like rickets and osteoporosis, new research reveals.

A team of Spanish scientists discovered that deficiencies of the vitamin, which can be generated from exposure to sunlight, can aggravate a number of conditions, warning that post-menopausal women who are short on the vitamin are particularly at risk of osteoporosis, loss of motor coordination and bone fractures.

The researchers, led by Faustino Perez-Lopez from the University of Zaragoza in Spain, conducted a literary review of previous research, and found that the levels of Vitamin D in food were not sufficient to maintain healthy bones.

"The major natural source of vitamin D is cutaneous synthesis through exposure to sunlight with a small amount from the diet in animal-based foods such as fatty fish, eggs and milk," the researchers wrote.

"Fortified foods do not necessarily provide sufficient amounts of vitamin D. Regular sunlight exposure (without sunscreens) for 15 minutes, three to four times a week, in the middle of the day in summer generate healthy levels."

They urged healthcare professionals in Europe to be aware of the extent of this problem and recommended the use of vitamin D supplements by post-menopausal women who are unable to acquire healthy levels of the vitamin through exposure to sunlight and diet.

The report concluded that optimum levels of Vitamin D in the blood stream stand between 30 and 90ng/ml, something that is not the case for up to 70 per cent of Europeans, including those in more sunny areas.

A spokesperson for Arthritis Ireland said: "The scale of vitamin D deficiency reported represents a genuine threat to the health and fitness of an ageing population. However, regular outdoor activities, such as walking, can help limit the risk of developing degenerative bone conditions like osteoporosis."