Vitamin D and Our Children

We have talked about the benefits of receiving daily sunlight in order to receive ample Vitamin D. Now the American Academy of Pediatrics is recommending children receive an increase in Vitamin D supplements in their report on Prevention of Rickets and Vitamin D Deficiency in Infants, Children, and Adolescents. Apparently, our children are not receiving adequate amounts of this necessary nutrient.

Children are not exposed to sunlight as much as children in past generations. There are many reasons for this: schools removing outside recess and PE from their schedule, children home alone after school staying inside, children performing more sedentary inside activities like watching TV and playing video games, and using excessive amounts of sunscreen to avoid burning and skin cancer. This is having an impact on our children's current and future health. Lack of Vitamin D affects the immune system and is linked to Type 1 Diabetes, as well as a condition known as rickets.

The American Academy of Pediatrics is recommending more Vitamin D supplements for infants, children and adolescents, in order to offset any future health problems. Children who live in colder climates and who have darker skin are more at risk for Vitamin D deficiency. Vitamin D aids the body in absorbing Calcium from foods, which is important for proper bone development.

Babies, children and adults alike would benefit from 15 minutes of sunlight per day, in order to acquire the needed amount of Vitamin D. If needed, supplements may be taken or eating foods high in Vitamin D, such as Salmon and Cod Liver Oil is helpful.

Now we have another reason to encourage our children to go outside and play, they need their daily dose of Vitamin D and its organic! Model the beneficial behavior and get outside yourself, your body will thank you by maintaining healthy bones and immune system.

Here's to your continued health!
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