A prolonged vitamin D deficiency may result in rickets, a softening and weakening of bones in children. Vitamin D plays a role in regulating levels of calcium and phosphate, which may be released from the bones if the blood levels of these minerals become low. Your child may not receive adequate vitamin D if she is lactose intolerant, does not drink milk products or follows a vegetarian diet. Although rare in developed countries, inadequate amounts of calcium and phosphorous in your child's diet can cause rickets.
Sources of Vitamin D
Your child's body receives vitamin D from sunlight and food. Exposure to sunlight prompts the skin to manufacture vitamin D, but the use of sunscreen blocks the rays that facilitate this process, says MayoClinic.com. If you live in a climate that permits only limited exposure to sunlight or if you stay indoors, obtaining adequate vitamin D may be problematic. Dietary sources of vitamin D include processed milk, fish oils, fatty fish, egg yolks and fortified cereals and juices.
Risks for Deficiencies
Human breast milk does not contain adequate amounts of vitamin D, and infants who are breastfed exclusively are at risk for vitamin D deficiency. Medical conditions such as celiac disease, inflammatory bowel disease, cystic fibrosis and kidney problems influence the way your child's body absorbs vitamin D. The University of Maryland Medical Center says that a genetic risk for rickets runs in some families when the kidneys cannot retain the mineral phosphate. Your child also is vulnerable to rickets during phases of accelerated growth when her body requires high levels of calcium and phosphate.
Treatment
The University of Michigan Health System cautions that modifications in your child's diet should be supervised by a doctor following a diagnosis of rickets. The symptoms of rickets respond to calcium, phosphorus and vitamin D. Vitamin D supplements may be prescribed if your child's rickets are associated with a metabolic condition. Avoid the dangers associated with excessive amounts of vitamin D by following your doctor's instructions regarding dosage.
Implications
Prevent rickets by ensuring that your child obtains adequate vitamin D, calcium and phosphorus in her diet. If your child has a gastrointestinal, metabolic or other health condition, consult your doctor to determine whether a need for supplements exists. Do not initiate dietary modifications without your doctor's recommendation.
