Vitamin D Deficiency in Kids: Could It Be Slowing Down Their Fracture Healing?

People are becoming more health conscious, and to be at the best of their health, they need to keep a close eye on the nutrients they consume. Vitamin D is one such essential nutrient that every person needs from external sources as it is not produced in our bodies, and there is no food source from which to obtain it. Whatever vitamin D you receive naturally is via your exposure to sunlight or from vitamin D pills.

Low vitamin D or vitamin D deficiency in kids has always been associated with bone health issues. Your child may suffer from impaired calcium absorption. Proper calcium absorption is a prerequisite as it plays a crucial role in fracture healing. 

Read the blog till the end to know the benefits of vitamin D for fracture healing. 

Vitamin D and Your Kid’s Health 

Vitamins influence a lot of our bodily systems. They work synergistically with our proteins, cells, and hormones to execute complex biological functions. Your kid's body processes vitamin D in the following ways:

1. Response of Immune System 

Vitamin D is essential for your kid to fight off various harmful pathogens. It works like a pillar of their immune system, safeguarding their bodies against several types of illnesses. 

2. Muscles and Nerves 

The nerves in your kid's body are their messengers. Optimum levels of vitamin D ensure that your kid's nervous system is functioning correctly and sending out the signals between their brain and body. Additionally, they play a crucial role in maintaining their muscle health. 

3. Bone Health 

The critical benefit of vitamin D for your kids is helping their body to absorb calcium. Vitamin D deficiency in kids might weaken their bone structure due to blocked absorption of calcium. This might result in their bones and teeth turning brittle. 

Causes of Vitamin D Deficiency in Kids 

Below are the primary causes of vitamin D deficiency in kids - 

1. Absorption disease  

Often, vitamin deficiencies spring up in your kids when their absorption is interrupted. Celiac disease and Crohn's disease can directly hinder the natural absorption of these vitamins from your kid's diet. Even if your kid receives sufficient amounts of vitamin D, disturbed consumption and absorption might result in a severe deficiency. 

2. Lack of Sunlight 

In most cases, less exposure to sunlight is the reason behind poor levels of vitamin D. If your kid is an indoor person, they will eventually trigger its deficiency. 

3. Insufficient Diet 

Does your kid enjoy having enough greens? If not, there is sure-shot evidence that you need to check for vitamin D deficiency in your kid. 

Side Effects of Vitamin D Deficiency in Kids  

A diet lacking sufficient minerals and vitamins is not optimal for maintaining your health. From bruising to rashes, vitamin and mineral deficiencies can result in conditions beyond your control. Vitamin D deficiency, in particular, is associated with delayed fracture healing, fatigue, and kidney issues. 

1. Fractures 

Vitamin D for fracture healing is quite crucial as fracture makes your kid's bone brittle. It is no hidden fact that brittle bones are more vulnerable to breakage. Fractures happen when your exposed body surface experiences tremendous stress and pressure. It can occur in both an accident and a fall. However, a prolonged vitamin D deficiency in kids can also make them easy volunteers for fractures. Even a minor fall could worsen their pain. 

Low levels of vitamin D could delay the recovery phase for fractures. It can also interfere with your kid's bone regrowth process. This may further complicate their situations, resulting in reduced mobility and extensive discomfort. 

2. Muscle Weakness 

Vitamin D also plays a significant role in maintaining the health of your kid's muscles. This deficiency can result in weak muscles and instant physical fatigue. Hence, the optimum levels of vitamin D are crucial for preventing your kid's muscles from weakening after falling from a height.

Takeaway 

Vitamin D is crucial for all age groups. Specifically, vitamin D deficiency in kids can make them prone to muscle weakness and fractures in case they suffer from falls or accidents. With some knowledge put into the correct practical application, you can bring your kid's vitamin D levels to optimum. You may talk to your healthcare provider if your kid has any serious concerns related to poor vitamin D absorption.