Evidence supporting the use of: Vitamin D
For the health condition: Cramps and Spasms

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Vitamin D is sometimes used to support or treat muscle cramps and spasms, particularly in the context of deficiency states. There is a scientific rationale for this use, but the strength of the evidence is limited. Vitamin D plays a crucial role in calcium and phosphate homeostasis, which are essential for normal muscle function. Deficiency in vitamin D can lead to hypocalcemia, and this in turn may manifest as muscle cramps, spasms, or even tetany in severe cases. Observational studies and some clinical reports have shown that correcting vitamin D deficiency can alleviate muscle cramps, especially in populations at risk, such as the elderly or those with malabsorption syndromes. However, randomized controlled trials (RCTs) assessing the effect of vitamin D supplementation on muscle cramps in the general population have shown mixed results. Some studies report modest improvements, while others show no significant benefit compared to placebo. The overall evidence suggests that vitamin D supplementation may be helpful for muscle cramps and spasms only when there is an underlying deficiency. Routine supplementation in individuals with normal vitamin D status does not appear to reliably prevent or treat cramps. In summary, there is a scientific basis for the use of vitamin D in treating muscle cramps and spasms specifically related to deficiency, but the evidence is not robust for its use beyond this indication. Clinical guidelines recommend correcting deficiency, but not routine use otherwise.

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Other health conditions supported by vitamin D

Allergies (food)
Alzheimer's Disease
Amenorrhea
Anorexia
Apathy
Arrhythmia
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Autism
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Backache
Birth Defects (prevention)
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Cramps and Spasms
Crohn's Disease
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Erectile Dysfunction
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Grave's Disease
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Hair (loss or thinning)
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Memory and Brain Function
Menopause
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Metabolic Syndrome
Migraine
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Multiple Sclerosis
Muscle Tone (lack of)
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