Rickets is a bone disorder caused by a lack of vitamin D, calcium or phosphate. Rickets causes softening and weakening of the bones. People with rickets often have delayed formation of teeth, decreased muscle tone, impaired growth, short stature and skeletal deformities. Prevention of rickets involves getting vitamin D from a variety of sources and being aware of possible risk factors for vitamin D deficiencies.
Vitamin D
Vitamin D is absorbed mostly through foods and helps the body maintain normal calcium and phosphate levels. Vitamin D is also used for conditions such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, obesity, multiple sclerosis and rheumatoid arthritis, according to National Institutes of Health. When the levels of these minerals dip too low, the body produces hormones that cause calcium and phosphate to release from the bones. Over time, this can lead to weakening and softening of bones.
Vitamin D Foods
Incorporating foods with vitamin D is the best way to avoid contracting rickets. Dietary sources of vitamin D include liver, cod liver oil, fish, eggs and processed milk. However, vitamin D has been incorporated into some foods during manufacturing. Foods like orange juice and fortified cereals such as Wheaties and Total can help people get their recommended daily allowance of vitamin D.
Vitamin D and Sunlight
The National Institutes of Health explains that people also get vitamin D from sunlight. However, sunscreens can cause a decrease in the absorption of vitamin D so people should go outside without sunscreen for limited periods. In some cases, physicians may opt to prescribe a vitamin D supplement.
Vitamin D Supplements
While it is best to get vitamin D through sunlight and food sources, this isn't always possible. Vitamin D supplements are usually safe when people take no more than the recommended amounts. Most people do not notice side effects when taking low doses of vitamin D. However, when people take high doses of the vitamin they may experience weakness, fatigue, sleepiness, nausea, headaches and vomiting, according to National Institutes of Health. Also, people taking vitamin D supplements in doses higher than 50 mcg per day for an extended period may develop excessively high levels of calcium in the blood which can cause a condition known as hypercalcemia.
Risk Factors
A lack of vitamin D is a huge risk factor for developing rickets. Breast-fed infants who do not receive a vitamin D supplements are at an increased risk for developing vitamin D deficiency because this vitamin does not cross to the baby in breast milk, according to MayoClinic.com. A lack of calcium and phosphorus also increase the risk of developing rickets and children are at the greatest risk. People who live in climates with limited sunlight exposure, who are unable to go outdoors or people who work indoors during daylight hours may also be at risk for a vitamin D deficiency.
