| Kids Need Vitamin D |
| Vitamin D has been known for years as the sunshine vitamin. That’s because healthy people can make vitamin D when their skin is exposed to enough direct sunlight. People
with dark skin need longer sun exposure. And sunscreen blocks vitamin D production. In
Northern California, the sun’s rays are limited for vitamin D production from November
through February. So we are more dependent on dietary sources and supplements this time
of year. Unfortunately, vitamin D deficiency is becoming more common among children and adults. Some young children have developed rickets, a condition in which bones don’t harden due to vitamin deficiency. These children have bowed legs, stunted growth, and pain. It is estimated 25% of adolescents and adults have vitamin D deficiency due to reduced intake of of vitamin D fortified foods and less direct sun exposure. Vitamin D deficiency weakens bones, causes muscle and bone pain, and may contribute to some chronic diseases. Foods that naturally contain vitamin D are fish, egg yolks, and liver. All cow’s milk and most infant formula is fortified with vitamin D in California. Some cereals, orange juices, and yogurts are fortified with vitamin D also. The recommended adequate intake is 200 international units for infants to age 50. (Older adults need more.) Eight ounces of milk provide 100 international units. Infants who are exclusively breastfed have a higher risk of developing rickets. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends breastfed infants receive vitamin D supplements usually in the form of infant multivitamin drops starting in the first two months of life. Infants who drink less then 16 ounces of formula a day and children and teens who drink less then 16 ounces of vitamin D-fortified milk a day should also receive a vitamin D supplement. Be sure to discuss vitamin D supplements with your pediatrician or health care provider and don’t use a supplement designed for an older child or adult. Tip of the Month: Encourage your children to eat and drink foods high in vitamin D (milk, fish, fortified cereals, and fortified orange juices). |
| Adapted from USDA Publication "The Power of Choice" |
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