Can vitamin D deficiency make ankylosing spondylitis symptoms worse? The short answer is: it very well might.
Research has found that people with ankylosing spondylitis tend to have lower vitamin D levels than the general population. Lower levels have also been linked to reduced bone mineral density, which is a real Show Full Answer
Can vitamin D deficiency make ankylosing spondylitis symptoms worse? The short answer is: it very well might.
Research has found that people with ankylosing spondylitis tend to have lower vitamin D levels than the general population. Lower levels have also been linked to reduced bone mineral density, which is a real concern since bone health is already a challenge with spondylitis. Here's why vitamin D matters for spondylitis specifically:
- Bone strength – Vitamin D helps the body absorb calcium, keeping bones as strong as possible
- Inflammation – Vitamin D may boost the body's ability to fight inflammation, which is central to spondylitis
- Pain – One study found that supplementing vitamin D helped ease pain in people who were actually deficient in it
Some MySpondylitisTeam members have reported feeling a noticeable difference after boosting their vitamin D levels. That said, more isn't always better. Too much vitamin D can cause nausea, muscle weakness, confusion, dehydration, and kidney stones. It can also interact with certain medications.
It's really worth asking a rheumatologist to check vitamin D levels before making any changes — they can recommend the right dose if supplementation is needed.
May 22
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