

Due to this unpredictability, as well as the increased risk of skin cancer with UV exposure, consumption of vitamin D through diet and supplementation is the most dependable way to ensure adequate intake. Multiple factors affect how much of the UV rays actually reach the skin, including latitude, time of day, season, cloudiness and air pollution. Vitamin D is also synthesized by the skin through ultraviolet light exposure. However, newborn babies and infants are most at risk of vitamin D deficiency because they do not yet consume solid foods. These include cereals, bread, milk, orange juice, and yogurt. Thankfully, many foods are fortified with Vitamin D in the United States.

Signs of severe vitamin D deficiency include: It is often difficult to diagnose vitamin D deficiency, as the symptoms are very vague, and by the time signs start to appear, the deficiency is quite pronounced. Signs and symptoms of vitamin D deficiency Other health complications include bone pain, muscle weakness, seizures, tetany, heart arrhythmias, dental abnormalities, stunted growth and developmental delay. This can lead to bone deformity and scoliosis and may be associated with fractures. In growing children, vitamin D deficiency can result in a medical condition called rickets (soft and weak bones).


are meeting the American Academy of Pediatrics vitamin D intake requirements. What is vitamin D deficiency?Ĭurrently, fewer than 40% of infants under 1 year of age in the U.S. Vitamin D is needed to support healthy bone development. Seran Kim, board-certified Emergency Physician
