Vitamin D Deficiency: Causes, Consequences, and Management
Vitamin D Deficiency: Causes, Consequences, and Management By The Lifesciences Magazine Introduction The importance of vitamin D in preserving health has been well-recognized in recent decades. However, studies show that vitamin D deficiency is a global problem, and large population-based studies support the idea that low levels of 25 hydroxyvitamin D (OHD) are associated with several health problems (Adams & Hewison, 2010). Vitamin D insufficiency is often underdiagnosed or untreated among the worldwide population, even though vitamin D supplementation is safe and relatively affordable. Beginning at about six months of age, children with vitamin D deficiency show signs of skeletal abnormalities. While bending at the knees is the most noticeable sign, knock knees (genu valgum) may also occur. Children who don’t get enough vitamin D could be irritable and resistant to weight growth (Pearce & Cheetham, 2010). Pain in the muscles and joints, fatigue and even depression ...