Evaluating Vitamin D Deficiency-Linked Digestive Issues by Bridging Endocrinology With Gastrointestinal Disorders

Vitamin D insufficiency is increasingly recognized as a significant and underlying contributor to a wide range of musculoskeletal disorders, particularly in gastrointestinal (GI) and endocrine health. The study aims to determine the clinical relationship between vitamin D status and the severity of GI symptoms, while also assessing the impact of related endocrine disturbances.

A cross-sectional study was conducted involving 120 adult patients with GI problems, including constipation, bloating, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and dyspepsia in a tertiary care hospital over a six-month duration. Measurement of serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D), cortisol, and parathyroid hormone (PTH) was obtained. GI signs were documented on validated symptom scales, and correlations were analyzed by Pearson correlation.

Among 120 participants, 81.7% (98) were vitamin D-deficient with an average serum level of 16.8 ng/mL. Patients with a deficiency had significantly more symptoms of IBS and high values of symptom severity scores. The decreased vitamin D was correlated with severe reflux (r = -0.31, p = 0.009), constipation (r = -0.42, p < 0.001), belly pain (r = -0.37, p = 0.003), gas and bloating (r = -0.34, p = 0.005), and bowel incontinence (r = -0.27, p = 0.018). It was also moderately and negatively correlated (r = -0.29, p = 0.012) with the fatty liver index. Furthermore, 65% of individuals had increased levels of cortisol and PTH.

Vitamin D deficiency is common in patients with chronic GI symptoms and correlates with increased symptom severity and endocrine disruptions. Functional GI disorders can be clinically managed by incorporating vitamin D and hormonal testing into regular diagnostics. Identifying and addressing these factors early may help develop effective and personalized treatment approaches.