Three Reasons Vitamin D is Important for Your Child’s Growing Body

Many people understand the importance of having adequate amounts of vitamin D.  It is especially important for people living in the Northern hemisphere of the planet since there is less sunlight during the winter months. Vitamin D is important for many different parts of the body. Interestingly, not everyone knows it can be important for cognitive development and mental health. Below are three reasons vitamin D is important for our growing children.

1. Bone Health and Growth
   • Not surprisingly, vitamin D is important for a growing child’s bone health and growth. Vitamin D plays a fundamental role in the absorption of calcium and phosphorus. Research studies have shown that the relationship between vitamin D deficiency and higher risk of rickets. Rickets is a condition characterized by weakened and deformed bones in growing children.

2. Cognitive Development
   • Not as surprisingly, emerging research suggests that vitamin D may play a role in cognitive development during childhood. Vitamin D is involved in neurodevelopment and neuronal functioning. Both are critical for learning and memory processes.
   • A study published in the Journal of Nutrition in 2020 investigated the association between vitamin D levels and cognitive performance in school-aged children. This study suggested a potential link between vitamin D and cognitive development, as the findings indicated that children with higher vitamin D levels had better cognitive performance in certain domains.

3. Mental Health and Mood Regulation
   • Finally, vitamin D has been implicated in mood regulation and mental health. Studies have suggested a potential link between vitamin D deficiency and increased risk of mood disorders in both children and adolescents.  Mood disorders such as depression and anxiety.
   • Adequate levels of vitamin D may help support overall mental well-being. A study published in the Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry in 2017 examined the association between vitamin D levels and depression in adolescents. Researchers found that lower vitamin D levels were significantly associated with an increased risk of depression symptoms in this group.

Please note, that while vitamin D is important for child development, it is imperative to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any supplements. Each person’s needs differ, and a holistic approach for any issues should be considered, including diet, lifestyle and each person’s health status.