Vitamin D, Indispensable For Our Children's Bone Growth
In children, vitamin D is essential for bone growth. It is present in certain foods and is also manufactured by our bodies through exposure to sunlight. Babies and teenagers are particularly prone to vitamin D deficiency.
FORMS OF VITAMIN D
There are two forms of vitamin D, D2 and D3. Vitamin D3 is the vitamin D naturally produced by the skin: cholecalciferol (animal form) while vitamin D2 is a plant form.
Encourage extracurricular outdoor physical activity for your child.
FILL UP ON VITAMIN D WITH SUNLIGHT
Exposure to the sun can provide 80-90% of vitamin D needs. Sun exposure should be for a minimum of 10-15 minutes. Exposure should take place at least 2 to 3 times a week.
In winter the sun's rays are too steeply inclined to the horizon to allow efficient transformation of the precursor into vitamin D.
THE EFFECTS OF VITAMIN D DEFICIENCY
Vitamin D deficiency in children leads to rickets.
This is characterised by delays in motor development and growth, failure of the fontanelles to close and fuse, poor bone formation and sleep disturbances.
This disease corresponds to osteomalacia in adults. It is manifested by bone demineralisation, diarrhoea, nervousness and burning sensations in the mouth and throat.
