New Research Shows Vitamin D Supplements for Kids Could Help Combat Symptoms of ADHD

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is one of the most common conditions among children. Characterized by an inability to focus and control behavior, the percentage of children with ADHD has steadily grown over the last two decades. Genes certainly play a role in this condition. However, diet may also be a factor. New research is showing that a deficiency of vitamin D could be a contributing factor when it comes to ADHD. And for some children, kids vitamin D supplements could be an important part of their treatment plan.

In a recent study from Qatar presented at the American Academy of Pediatrics Experience National Conference & Exhibition, findings showed a distinct link between vitamin D deficiency and ADHD. The research team evaluated more than 1300 children with ADHD and an equal amount without ADHD to serve as controls. Vitamin D, calcium, magnesium, cholesterol, and phosphorus were measured in each child. Those with a vitamin D deficiency had a significantly higher rate of ADHD than those that had average vitamin D levels.

Because children who have ADHD are also frequently sensitive to sugar, artificial colorings, and other additives, many nutrition and medical experts recommend natural vitamin D supplements for kids with ADHD. It’s important to note that most kids vitamin D supplements found on grocery store shelves contain additives that can increase symptoms of ADHD, so it is important to carefully choose a supplement that is free from these additives.

If your child has been diagnosed with ADHD, speaking to your healthcare provider about vitamin D supplements for kids is a good idea as more research is being conducted regarding the link between the vitamin and the condition. Read more about the study conducted at the School Health and Primary Health Care Clinics, Qatar.

Kids vitamin D supplements May Help Kids Suffering from Eczema

Kids vitamin D supplements given on a daily basis may help children with eczema that flares up in the winter suggests a new study published in the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology. 

Researchers who conducted the study found that vitamin D significantly reduced the symptoms associated with the chronic skin disorder that is characterized by itchy, inflamed patches of skin. A common treatment for winter-related atopic dermatitis is ultraviolet light which stimulates vitamin D production. In the study, they look at the possibility that the condition gets worse in the winter when there is less sunlight. Because sunlight exposure enables the body to produce vitamin D, there is a greater chance of developing eczema during the darker months of winter.

The study was conducted with the help of the Health Sciences University of Mongolia and involved 107 Mongolian children between the ages of 2 and 17 – all with atopic dermatitis that flared up in the winter months. One group of the participants was given a daily dose of vitamin D and the others received a placebo.

Of those who received the vitamin D supplement, there was a 29 percent improvement in symptoms. These findings will give new hope in treating this chronic condition. With kids vitamin D supplements, there may be a safe, affordable, and convenient treatment for kids suffering from eczema.

More studies will be conducted to determine if vitamin D supplements for kids could also be beneficial for those who suffer from year-round atopic dermatitis. In the meantime, it’s worthwhile to discuss the benefits of vitamin D with your child’s doctor to determine if kids vitamin D supplements are beneficial.

For more information about vitamin D, go to the U.S. National Institutes of Health Office of Dietary Supplements website.