The doctor explained the causes of spring fatigue

With the onset of spring, many people face fatigue, drowsiness and a decrease in mood. In everyday life, this condition is often called vitamin deficiency, but from a medical point of view, it is more often not a complete lack of vitamins, but a seasonal decrease in their level — hypovitaminosis. Svetlana Burnatskaya, internist at the Academician Roitberg clinic of JSC "Medicine" (Academician Roitberg Clinic), told Izvestia about this on April 23.

"We are dealing with a temporary micronutrient deficiency that accumulates over the winter. Its signs may be blurred: dry skin, brittle hair, congestion in the corners of the mouth, constant fatigue. Attempts to compensate for vitamin deficiencies with fruits alone are not always effective. The approach should take into account individual characteristics — age, gender and lifestyle. So, women often lack iron and biotin in the spring, men lack zinc and selenium, and vitamin D is especially important for children for growth and the immune system," the specialist explained.

Among the most common deficits after winter, experts identify vitamin D, vitamin C, and vitamins of group B. The former is practically not synthesized without sunlight, the latter supports blood vessels and immunity, and B vitamins are responsible for energy levels and the functioning of the nervous system.

It is important to consider the compatibility of additives. As noted by pharmaceutical expert, representative of Ozon Pharmaceuticals Valentina Milovanova, some combinations can be both useful and undesirable. For example, vitamin C improves iron absorption, but under certain conditions it can increase the load on the body, especially with already elevated iron levels.

Doctors emphasize that a balanced diet remains the basis of prevention. In spring, the diet should be supplemented with foods rich in vitamins: sauerkraut, frozen berries, sprouts of cereals, fatty fish and fermented dairy products. However, with a pronounced deficiency, this may not be enough.

Experts warn against self-administration of vitamin complexes without consulting a doctor. Excessive consumption, especially of fat-soluble vitamins A, D and E, can lead to negative consequences, including liver and kidney damage. Laboratory tests help to determine the real need.

Special attention is paid to vitamin D, a deficiency of which is typical for residents of northern latitudes. The preventive dosage for adults is usually from 800 to 2000 IU per day, but it is recommended to start taking it after assessing the vitamin level in the blood.

Burnatskaya also advises against using a single approach for the whole family. Vitamin needs are individual and depend on the state of health and the level of exercise.

"Folk remedies can be useful if used wisely. Rosehip infusion and sprouted cereals are good sources of vitamins. But the main thing is not individual products, but an overall balance: adequate sleep, physical activity and a varied diet," Burnatskaya emphasized.

The doctor reminded that vitamins are not a universal remedy "just in case", but elements that require a competent and individual approach.

On April 7, Science Daily reported that people with high levels of vitamin D at a young age are less likely to accumulate tau protein in the brain after a decade and a half, scientists from the University of Galway (Ireland) found out. Experts believe that a deficiency of this component may be a risk factor for dementia that can be adjusted.