Asthma is the inflammation of the lungs and airways on exposure to triggers such as pollen, cold weather, infections, cigarette smoke and pollution. Asthma during childhood can interfere with the kid's play, school and sleep and is one of the leading causes of emergency room visits. There is no cure for childhood asthma, although certain corticosteroid, leukotriene and beta-agonist medications may help control the symptoms and improve the child's quality of life. Vitamin D supplements may also help manage childhood asthma.
About Vitamin D
Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin that plays an important role in absorption of calcium in the body. It is important for maintaining bone health and regulating blood pressure. The Linus Pauling Institute recommends 10 to 15 mcg of calcium per day, depending on the age and overall condition of the patient. The vitamin can be obtained from foods such as salmon, sardines, fortified dairy and soy products and cereals. The human body can endogenously produce significant amounts of vitamin D, when exposed to sunlight. Synthetic and natural vitamin D supplements are also available at most local pharmacies without prescription.
Link Between Vitamin D and Asthma
Vitamin D deficiency is often seen in North American children with mild-to-moderate asthma and may increase the severity of their symptoms, says a study published in the July 2010 issue of "The Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology." A similar study with Costa Rican children, published in the January 2009 issue of the "American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine," also revealed that vitamin D insufficiency leads to increased levels of asthma and allergy markers in the blood.
Side Effects
No side effects are associated with vitamin D obtained from dietary sources. However, excessive exposure to sun for the vitamin can increase the risk of skin cancer. Increased levels of vitamin D can lead to increased calcium deposits in the soft tissues such as heart and lungs. Overuse of vitamin D supplements can also lead to vomiting, kidney stones and muscle weakness, according to MedlinePlus.
Precautions
Always talk to a doctor before administering vitamin D to prevent or manage childhood asthma. Your doctor may also help to determine a dose that is right for you or your child. Inform your provider about any pre-existing conditions to avoid complications.
References
- Linus Pauling Institute: Vitamin D
- "The Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology"; Serum Vitamin D Levels and Severe Asthma Exacerbations in the Childhood Asthma Management Program Study; John M. Brehm, et al.; July 2010
- "The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition"; Maternal Intake of Vitamin D During Pregnancy and Risk of Recurrent Wheeze in Children at 3 y of Age; Carlos A Camargo, Jr, et al.; March 2007
- "American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine"; Serum Vitamin D Levels and Markers of Severity of Childhood Asthma in Costa Rica; John M. Brehm, et al.; January 2009
- MedlinePlus: Vitamin D
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