Vitamin 'D' and its importance for Children's Health

Vitamin D is associated with a healthier immune system, stronger bones, a lower chance of premature birth, and even the prevention of illness in children. 

Sun Vitamin is another name for Vitamin D. It is a special vitamin because, unlike other vitamins, it is not found in most foods. The human body produces vitamin D when exposed to sunlight. There are two types of vitamin D: vitamin D2, which is found in plant foods, and vitamin D3, which is found in animal foods.
More than 2000 genes in the body are affected by vitamin D3, and vitamin D3 is known to increase blood vitamin D levels. One of the most important nutrients for children is vitamin D3, which promotes healthy growth, development, and well-being.

Here are the reasons why children need vitamin D3. Older children who do not consume enough vitamin D-rich foods may have low vitamin D levels. Even if you want a strong immune system and healthy bones, it can be difficult to tell if your child is getting enough vitamin D. Getting enough vitamin D from the sun has always been difficult for most people, for whom sun protection is more important than sun exposure.

Why is vitamin D important for children?
Vitamin D has enormous benefits for both kids and adults. It leads to a healthier immune system, stronger bones, less chance of premature birth, and even disease prevention. Here are just a few of the many benefits vitamin D brings to your child's health
1. Boosts immunity
within the body, vitamin D acts like a hormone, regulating cell activity, helping develop immunity, and increasing disease resistance. Additionally, studies have shown that vitamin D provides protection against respiratory and influenza viruses.
2. Prevention of Certain Diseases
Some studies show that vitamin D helps prevent prostate cancer and heart disease. Still, there isn't enough evidence to make the claim. However, studies have shown that seriously ill children have low levels of vitamin D in their bodies.
3. Strengthens Bones
Calcium is undoubtedly the focus when it comes to your child's bone health, but Vitamin D also plays an important role. Studies show that bone-strengthening minerals are only absorbed by the body when vitamin D is present. As children grow and bones develop, it is important to get adequate amounts of calcium and vitamin D. Rarely, a lack of vitamin D in youngsters can cause rickets.

4. Manage Weight

Children with vitamin D deficiency may be at an unhealthy weight. Obesity is the main cause of vitamin D in these children.

How can you ensure your child's diet contains enough vitamin D?
Unfortunately, vitamin D is not naturally found in many foods. A serving of salmon contains less than half the vitamin D that children need each day compared to a similar can of tuna. Children need to eat about 10 eggs a day to meet their needs, and eggs contain moderate amounts of vitamin D (found in the yolk). Vitamin D is naturally present in mushrooms and some have been UV treated to increase vitamin content.
Fortified foods such as milk, yogurt, muesli, and orange juice are recommended for children with it seems like an easier way to get a daily dose. Fortunately, exposure to the sun changes skin chemicals to the active form of D, so it can also provide vitamin D to children.