RDA of vitamin D to double for children

Added 23.10.2008

Last month, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) doubled the Recommended Daily Allowance (RDA) of vitamin D for children from 200 international units (IU) to 400 IU.

Why is vitamin D so important?

Vitamin D is vital for promoting the gastrointestinal absorption of calcium and phosphorus. This is because vitamin D preserves normal levels of calcium and phosphorus in the blood, which is necessary for children to develop and maintain strong bones.

Vitamin D and rickets

Unfortunately, rickets is still prevalent around the world today. It is a children's disease that results from vitamin D deficiency and is characterised by the softening and weakening of bones, which can lead to skeletal deformities. By doubling the RDA of vitamin D for children, the AAP hopes to slowly eradicate this crippling disease.

Vitamin D and breastfeeding

According to the AAP, human milk does not contain sufficient levels of vitamin D and children most at risk for rickets are those who are breastfed without vitamin D supplementation. All breastfed infants should be given vitamin D supplements (400 IU) and supplementation should begin within a few days of birth.

Vitamin D and sunlight

Children who do not get regular sun exposure are also at a higher risk of developing rickets. Our skin produces vitamin D when it is exposed to sunlight. Regular moderate sun exposure is preferred to sun exposure with sunscreens because sunscreens decrease vitamin D production in the skin significantly.

References:

How can you obtain the new vitamin D recommendations?

To obtain the RDA of vitamin D and prevent rickets, supplement your child with Doctor's Natural vitamins that will provide your child with the correct and safe dose of this crucial vitamin.

• Buy Vitamins for Children