Vitamin D is needed to support bone development by playing a role in Calcium absorption in the gut. In addition, it regulates how much calcium and phosphorus gets stored in the bone and how much it gets let out of the body in urine by the kidneys. 1
Between 3 and 6 years, kids need 600 IU of Vit D each day. 2
What are the sources of Vitamin D?
- Exposure to sunlight: Did you know that
a- UVB does not penetrate glass, so exposure to sunshine indoors through a window does not produce Vitamin D.
b- Adequate levels of sunlight exposure for cutaneous Vitamin D synthesis may increase the risk of skin cancer, so we advise the use of photoprotective measures like sunscreen that can block Vitamin D production.
2. Very few foods in nature contain Vitamin D, such as fatty fish and fish liver oil.
Small amounts are found in egg yolk, mushroom and cheese.
3. Look for Vitamin D fortified foods like milk and cereals to get Vitamin D needs
4. Adapted milk formula for kids between 3 and 6 years old provide the child with 15 more times of Vitamin D compared to Cow’s milk.
Dr. Lina Farhat
Pediatrician
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