An important fat soluble vitamin that helps facilitate the absorption of calcium and phosphate levels in the body, vitamin D is vital to growing children. Vitamin D helps with both bone growth and immune function, and a deficiency can result in a serious condition called rickets. Fortunately, chewable vitamin D supplements can prevent rickets and other health problems by providing the recommended daily allowance.
Vitamin D can be obtained in the diet through fortified milk, as well as some types of fish. Vitamin D is also produced naturally in the body when the skin is exposed to sunlight. However, as more parents protect their children’s skin with sunscreen and fewer drink milk, the rate of children acquiring rickets is growing. African American children and breast-fed babies are at a higher risk.
Determining Vitamin D Deficiency
A simple blood test that measures blood levels of calcidiol can determine if there is a vitamin D deficiency. Normal levels of vitamin D are greater than or equal to 20 ng/mL. Levels that are less than 12 ng/mL indicate a deficiency and possibly the need for vitamin D chewables for supplementation.
Other indicators of vitamin D deficiency include skeletal deformities, slowed growth, and dental problems.
Obtaining the Daily Allowance in Vitamin D Chewables
The recommended daily allowance for vitamin D in children up to 1 year old is 400 IU and 600 IU for children up to 18. A well-formulated chewable vitamin D for children, such as Animal Parade Vitamin D3, contains 500 IU of the bioavailable form vitamin D3.
If you suspect a possible vitamin D deficiency in your child, consult your pediatrician right away. Oftentimes, the addition of chewable vitamin D supplements can bring levels back to normal quickly to prevent symptoms before they become serious problems.
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