We’ve all heard so much about Vitamin D, also called the ‘Sunshine Vitamin’. But how many of us really know what it is, and how it is important to us and our children?
Vitamin D is essential for a child’s normal growth and development. It is produced in our body after it is exposed to Ultra-Violet rays from the sun. This vitamin helps in increasing the absorption of calcium and phosphorus, thereby making the bones strong. Studies have suggested that vitamin D is also vital in maintaining a good immune system, in regulating the growth of cells, and in the prevention of cancer.
A number of researches have been carried out to understand the role of vitamin D in child health. Most studies have indicated that vitamin D can be beneficial in preventing Rickets and reducing the risk of Osteoporosis. Children with a deficiency of this vitamin are at a high risk for stunted growth and weakened bones. A study published in the October 2008 Journal of Pediatrics says that almost 50% of children suffering from Cystic Fibrosis were deficient in Vitamin D.
The American Academy of Pediatrics recently doubled its recommendation of the amount of vitamin D that children require, following a stream of reports about the benefits of this vitamin and the effects of the lack of it. This is clearly a wake-up call for all of us. So, is your child getting enough of the sunshine vitamin?
The American Academy now recommends 400 International Units of vitamin D for children from infancy through adolescence. That would mean at least 4 cups of vitamin-D fortified milk per day. And if milk is not a favorite with your kid, do not worry. Some other foods are also rich in vitamin D. The flesh of salmon, mackerel and tuna fish, and fish liver oils are said to be the best sources. Egg yolks, cheese and beef liver also contain small amounts of vitamin D. Some mushrooms provide this vitamin too.
Although there are no exclusive vitamin D supplementary drops or pills, multivitamin supplements, containing vitamin D should be given to kids from their early years. For breast-fed infants, vitamin D fortified infant formula is an essential source.
More than anything else, sunlight is a great source of this vitamin. So, let your child get enough sun exposure too. Encourage outdoor activities and allow your child a minimum of 10 minutes sun exposure, without a sunscreen.
Children with a deficiency of Vitamin D may not show any symptoms initially. However, your doctor will be able to check the levels of the vitamin, if it is suspected to be low. Do not hesitate to get your child’s vitamin D levels checked. Because detecting the deficiency at an early stage will only help in preventing any permanent damage.
A Mass Communication graduate with a passion for writing
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