Vitamin D is essential for a growing organism. Nature itself made sure that the baby receives this vitamin in sufficient quantities - from the sun. But what if the weather does not spoil clear days at all?
Rickets is a disease most commonly seen in preschool children. In most cases, vitamin D deficiency (actually rickets) occurs in weakened, premature babies. Also at risk are children from 3 months to 3 years old. It is during this period of life that the growth of the organism is at the very peak of its activity. A child needs more vitamin D (about 5-6 times) than an adult. Therefore, the prevention of rickets in a child is very important and necessary.
Vitamin D and calcium
The development and growth of bone tissue in a baby is largely controlled by vitamin D. Bones are composed of mineralized substances, in particular calcium and phosphorus salts. This mineralization process is carried out precisely thanks to vitamin D. It also promotes the absorption of calcium from food and maintains the phosphorus-calcium balance. In addition to bones, calcium is an indispensable element in the functioning of the neuromuscular system. Thus, a lack of the necessary substances will lead to a blow to the entire body.
Rickets in children. Prevention
No one will say that rickets is fatal, but the consequences can be dire and, more importantly, irreversible. Children who have suffered rickets lag behind in development from their peers, are more likely to suffer from infectious diseases, and risk being disabled. Therefore, loving parents should know about preventive measures.
Prevention should be carried out continuously, from birth until the age of 14 (adolescence), when the active growth and development of the skeleton is suspended.
Preventive measures before the baby is born are as follows:
- constant medical supervision over the development of pregnancy;
- long walks and being in the fresh air of a pregnant woman, because it is due to exposure to sunlight that vitamin D is produced;
- correct diet;
- starting from the third trimester, you should additionally take vitamin D, namely 500 IU; any dose increase should be discussed with your doctor.
Prevention measures for rickets in children:
- in the first three weeks of life when breastfeeding, you do not need to take any specific measures, since the supply of vitamin D, made in the third trimester, is quite enough for the baby;
- hardening procedures, air baths, gymnastics, massage - all this has a positive effect on the body;
- taking vitamin D should be started from the second month of life; the exact dosage will be prescribed by the doctor (he should pay special attention to premature babies, as well as twins, twins and triplets).
Most often, water, oil or alcohol solutions are used as an additional source of vitamin D. For babies, the doctor will most likely prescribe an aqueous solution of vitamin D.
Rickets can be prevented and much easier to do than to cure. Therefore, it is your task to talk about it with a pediatrician.
