The major biologic function of vitamin D is to maintain normal blood levels of calcium and phosphorus. Vitamin D aids in the absorption of calcium, helping to form and maintain strong bones. Signs of Vitamin D deficiency include: osteoporosis, muscle weakness and pain, psoriasis, osteomalacia, rickets, cancer, autoimmune diseases, and other bone diseases.
Did you know that the use of sunscreen prevents the formation of vitamin D? Even sunscreen with an SPF of 8, an amount found in many daily moisturizers, can greatly reduce vitamin D production. People who don't get enough sun, have darker skin pigmentation, and older people are at a higher risk of vitamin D deficiency and should be careful in their diets.
Here are some quick facts about Vitamin D:
- There have been at least 228 cases of rickets in the United States since 1986.
- Avoiding rickets and trying to boost your child's vitamin D levels is not a good reason to stop using sunscreen. The risks of unprotected sun exposure, including sun burns and sun cancer, are too great.
- A referral to a pediatric endocrinologist can be helpful if your child has rickets.
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