The best Vitamin D for babies is produced by their bodies when exposed to natural sunlight. The problem arises during the colder season if the little ones spend most of their time in the warmth indoors. It would be important, for adults and children, exposure to sunlight of at least 15-20 minutes a day, with limbs and torso exposed without clothing, a particularly unlikely situation during the winter season.
Vitamin D deficiency is very common in children, among the reasons also the difficulty of filling up with this vitamin through food. Cod liver oil is rich in it and is also found in smaller quantities in the liver of other animals, egg yolk, mushrooms, sardines, herring, salmon, oysters, and a few other foods.
Why Vitamin D Is Important For Children
Thanks to vitamin D, children’s bodies can absorb the calcium present in food, which becomes fixed in the bones. This is why this vitamin is essential for their proper bone development.
Typical symptoms of severe vitamin D deficiency in children are rickets (a skeletal pathology that leads to bone fragility and deformity) and the frequency of tooth decay and gum problems.
Vitamin D is also essential for the proper functioning of children’s immune systems.
In particular, it is important for the role of T lymphocytes, the first immune cells called to intervene in the event of an attack by viruses and bacteria. Without adequate vitamin D levels in the blood, the T lymphocytes cannot do their job well, and the immune response to the attack of viruses and bacteria is, therefore, less efficient. This is why natural supplements with vitamin D3 can be useful for children during the colder months.
What Is Important To Know About Vitamin D Supplements For Children
Are you looking for the best Vitamin D supplement for children? Attention first of all to the origin of its ingredients. Natural vitamins are preferable to synthetic origin. Vitamin D supplements for children must then be taken easily, perhaps mixed with water or natural fruit juice, without altering the flavor. On the other hand, also pay attention to children’s candies rich in vitamins: they could also be rich in sugars that are not healthy to make them more inviting. Better read the label carefully
Not all sugars used to make baby food supplements taste pleasant are the same, and some can be harmful. Fructose, widespread in many supplements and food products, is particularly concerned with scientists. Excessive consumption of fructose could expose children to overweight, fatty liver, increased triglycerides, and risk of diabetes. The supplements of vitamin D children must finally be formulated to cover their specific daily requirements. The recommended amount of vitamin D for children aged 4 to 10 years is 15 μg per day.
Other Safe, Natural Extracts That Can Support The Immune Defenses Of The Little Ones
To support the natural immune defenses of children, other nutrients are also useful, such as zinc and selenium, with antioxidant function and support for immune cells. Vitamin C is also important (Rosehip extract or Acerola juice is naturally rich). Let’s not forget propolis, with recognized antibacterial, antioxidant, antiviral, and antifungal properties. Clinical studies have shown its efficacy against many strains of influenza viruses. Astragalus, Rosehip, and Coriolis also come to our aid from the plant world, to be mentioned for their immunostimulant properties. That is, they support the immune system.
The most effective form to take these plants is that of titrated dry extract: the only one that guarantees the certain and constant presence of natural active ingredients in the formulation. If in doubt, ask your pharmacist or herbalist and avoid powdered plants or dry extracts without titration. Choose supplements specifically formulated for children and check that they do not contain fructose or other synthetic sweeteners. Your pediatrician will be able to advise you!
ALSO READ: THE BENEFITS OF VITAMIN D AND WHICH FOODS CONTAIN IT