WHAT PARENTS SHOULD KNOW ABOUT VITAMIN D FOR KIDS

Here, we look at the benefits for your child of Vitamin D and the signs of deficiency to look out for.

Vitamin D helps regulate calcium and phosphate levels in the body that are important for bone development and strength. But research has explored Vitamin D’s role in boosting the body’s immune system and established that the role of Vitamin D in promoting good health may go even further. More recently, several studies have even looked at the role of Vitamin D in reducing illness from Covid-19.

While more is still being learned about the benefits of Vitamin D, it’s known as an essential part of keeping your child’s bones strong as they develop. So how do you ensure your children are getting enough Vitamin D?

The role of Vitamin D

Vitamin D helps the body to absorb and regulate calcium, which is essential for bone health. Without enough Vitamin D, kids may suffer from weak or brittle bones that can break easily - while doing sports, for example. Calcium deficiency can also increase the risk of developing rickets, a bone condition that can lead to bowed legs and stunted growth, caused by severe Vitamin D deficiency.

As one researcher explains: “The primary function for Vitamin D, the one we focus on the most, is bone health. Vitamin D acts almost like a construction site supervisor. It makes sure the materials we need for strong bones – such as calcium and phosphate – are where they need to be, and in the correct amounts.”

How much Vitamin D do kids need?

Different amounts of Vitamin D are recommended based on a child’s age, but the following are recommended: