Kid’s Vitamin D3 Supplements Helping Children with Epilepsy

Children with epilepsy are two to three times more likely to break bones than others within their age group, according to research conducted by the Leicester Royal Infirmary’s Department of Pediatric Neurology. Prior research had shown a link between epilepsy and weakened bones in some children, but this new evidence, published in The Journal of Pediatric Neurosciences, provides more compelling proof.

The cause of the lack of bone strength is suspected to be anti-epileptic medicines that prevent the body from replacing old bone tissue with new tissue. These medications also negatively impact bone density, making bones in children more prone to fractures.

Researchers who published the findings have recommended that children who have epilepsy and are taking anti-epilepsy medications should take a supplement of vitamin d3 for kids. The authors of the published findings stated, “Low dose vitamin D supplementation is now recommended for healthy children, and it is biologically feasible that children with epilepsy may be at higher risk of clinically significant deficiency. It is important that neurologists ensure that low dose vitamin D supplementation should be prescribed in children with epilepsy.”

Epilepsy in Children
According the U.S. Centers for Disease Control, approximately 400,000 children in the United States have epilepsy, and most control seizures through medication. Because epilepsy is often a lifelong condition, children who are taking anti-seizure medications will likely need supplementation throughout their lives. With these medications linked to bone-related issues, parents of children with epilepsy should definitely discuss kids vitamin D3 supplements with their pediatrician. Along with potentially helping prevent bone breaks and fractures, vitamin D3 may also be beneficial in minimizing symptoms of other common conditions, including eczema, depression, and ADHD.

What to Look for in Kid’s Vitamin D3 Supplements
For a child to gain the benefits of a supplement of vitamin D3 for kids, it’s important to provide a well-formulated supplement that contains at least 500 IU of the vitamin. It’s also important to choose a brand that is made from the bioavailable active form of the vitamin to support optimal growth and long-term health. An option, such as Animal Parade Vitamin D3, is a good choice because of its quality and taste.