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[Best Syndication News] A study of over 6,000 children in the US found that seven out of ten of them had low levels of vitamin D. Out of these children 9 percent were found to have a vitamin D deficiency which increases their risk for bone and heart disease. The study was conducted by researchers at the the Albert Einstein College of Medicine of Yeshiva University. The findings was published in the online edition of Pediatrics.

The researchers studied over 6,000 children ranging in age from 1 – 21 which the data was collected by the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey from 2001 – 2004. They wanted to find out how prevalent vitamin D deficiency was in US children.

The researchers found that 9 percent of the children showed were deficient in vitamin D while another 61 percent of the children where not getting enough vitamin D. In terms of the population of the US, the 9 percent of children would equate to around 7.6 million children in the US that are vitamin D deficient.

Children that were older, female, African-American, Mexican-American, obese, drank milk less than once a week, or spent more than four hours watching TV, playing video games, or using a computer were at a higher risk for having a vitamin D deficiency.

In addition to the low levels of vitamin D there was a higher level of the parathyroid hormone which is a marker for determining bone health, higher systolic blood pressure, lower levels of calcium in the blood, and lower levels of HDL “good” cholesterol levels. These are all key risk factors related to developing heart disease.

The researchers recommending having the kids go out for 15 – 20 minutes a day without sun screen and only use sunscreen 10 minutes after they are outside so that they can get vitamin D from the sun. The goal is not to get a sunburn but it is good to get sun without sunscreen.

You should consult with your doctor to make sure that you child is getting enough vitamin D, especially if your child is at a higher risk for deficiency. The American Academy of Pediatrics now has increased their recommended daily intake of vitamin D to 400 IU per day, but make sure to check with the pediatrician first before taking any supplements.

Vitamin D is not really a vitamin as it is a hormone. It is hard to get vitamin D from supplements, and it is easier to get vitamin D from the sun.

By Nicole Wilson

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