Vitamin D and kidney health: Your fatigue and weak bones are telling you something

The kidneys are two bean-shaped organs situated on either side of the spine, playing a vital role in filtering waste products from the bloodstream. While their primary function is to excrete nitrogenous waste, such as urea and creatinine, they also engage in several essential non-excretory functions, including the production of erythropoietin, a hormone important for red blood cell production, and the activation of vitamin D.

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is becoming a significant public health concern and is a major risk factor for early cardiovascular disease. Recent studies suggest that low vitamin D levels may contribute to the progression of CKD and its related cardiovascular issues. Many CKD patients experience severe vitamin D deficiency, which worsens due to their kidneys' reduced ability to convert vitamin D into its active form, 1,25 dihydroxy-vitamin D.

This vital connection between kidneys and vitamin D is key to maintaining bone health, warns Dr Navinath M., Consultant Nephrologist and Renal Transplant Physician at the Asian Institute of Nephrology and Urology. He explains, "The kidneys are not just vital for waste excretion; they also play a critical role in vitamin D metabolism, which is essential for maintaining bone health."

Dr Navinath M offers valuable insights into the critical relationship between vitamin D and kidney health:

• Vitamin D activation: The kidneys play a vital role in converting vitamin D into its active form, 1,25 Dihydroxy Vitamin D, through an enzyme known as 1 alpha hydroxylase. This activation is crucial for the proper absorption of calcium and the overall maintenance of bone health.

• Bone health and chronic kidney disease (CKD): In patients with CKD, the kidneys' ability to activate vitamin D becomes compromised, leading to significant skeletal abnormalities. This impairment often results in abnormal levels of calcium, phosphorus, and parathyroid hormone, which can significantly increase the risk of pathological fractures.

• Common vitamin D deficiency: Patients suffering from kidney disease frequently experience vitamin D deficiency, making supplementation necessary. When managed properly, vitamin D can significantly enhance bone health and reduce the risk of falls, particularly in elderly people who may already have fragile bones.

• Risks of excess supplementation: While adequate levels of vitamin D are essential, excessive supplementation can lead to hypercalcemia, which is characterised by elevated calcium levels in the blood. This condition can increase the likelihood of developing kidney stones, necessitating regular monitoring and management for patients with renal dysfunction.

• Consult an expert: For those with CKD, consulting a doctor is crucial to thoroughly assess bone health and effectively manage vitamin D levels. Regular follow-up appointments can help mitigate the risks associated with disturbances in vitamin D metabolism, ensuring that patients maintain optimal health.

Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis.